Introduction

Shoulder pain is often a series of events, each one a little more troublesome than the previous one. It can begin with bursitis or tendinitis, then impingement syndrome, bone spurs, small tears in the rotator cuff tendons, and full-thickness tears. Most shoulder injuries share some common causes and symptoms. Most are treatable without surgery and anyone is susceptible, especially athletes who depend on regular and heavy use of the shoulder joint.

Conditions

Tendinitis

Rotator cuff tendinitis is the mildest form of an overuse injury in the shoulder. Inflammation develops in one or more of the tendons that connect the four rotator cuff muscles to bones. It can happen because of overuse (throwing a baseball, for example), age, injury, or all three.

Impingement Syndrome

This condition occurs when a shoulder muscle, tendon, and bursa sac rub against the shoulder blade. It often develops simultaneously with shoulder tendinitis. In younger athletes this is usually due to an unstable shoulder blade, which is often a result of poor posture.

Bone spur

A bone spur in the shoulder is extra bone tissue that rubs against a tendon, nerve, or other bone. It is possible to have a bone spur for years without symptoms, but when they do appear, you will know it because of the pain and limited range of motion in your shoulder.

Partial tear

With friction, overuse, or an injury, the tendon that connects one of the four rotator cuff muscles begins to develop small, micro-tears. With rest and treatment, they heal. Without attention, they can develop into full-thickness tears.

Full-thickness tear

The same things that cause rotator cuff tendinitis and overuse, throwing, reaching, blows and falls that can lead to tears. But the more common cause is a gradual weakening of the tendon from years of use. People over 40 are particularly susceptible. The overuse-plus-age combination is a perfect formula for trouble.

Treatment

Initial Treatment

• Stop or limit the movement that causes the pain.
• Don't carry heavy bags or other equipment with the affected arm, and don't use bags with shoulder straps.
• Correct your posture throughout the day - keep your chest up and shoulder blades back and down.
• Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a day.Aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen may relieve pain.Aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen may relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
• If the pain persists longer than a week or if you cannot use your arm, get chiropractic help.
  

Long Term Treatment

• Do not increase duration, frequency, or intensity of training more than 10 percent a week.
• Wear warm clothing in cold weather.
• Wear protective equipment around the shoulder to protect against blows.
• Come in an get a personalized recovery plan from your chiropractor

Make an Appointment

By Phone

Call us at (858) 452-3734 and our helpful front office staff will be happy to assist you in making an appointment with Doctor Todd Plutchok, D.C.

E-mail Us With Your Appointment Request

You can email us with your appointment request here by emailing  DrTodd@TheSportsAndWellnessDC.com.  Just send us your Name, Email Address, and Phone Number, with your desired time.  Initial Visits normally last 45-55 minutes.  For normal clinic hours, click here.

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