One of the more common areas we treat here at Classic Chiropractic is the shoulder.
Shoulder Anatomy
The shoulder is a complex region made up of muscles, bones, ligaments, bursa and joints. The primary muscle group is the rotator cuff, the bones are the humerus, clavicle, and the scapulae, and the joints include the AC joint and the Glenohumeral joint (the ball and socket joint).
Shoulder Injuries
The beauty of the shoulder is it's incredible range of motion that allows us to perform an array of tasks and actions. However, the downside this increased capacity brings is an increased risk and rate of injury. Common shoulder injuries include: rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement, AC joint sprain, tendinitis, bursitis, and tears to the labrum. With so many possible causes for pain and injury is is vital to get the diagnosis correct. Therefore a detailed history and comprehensive exam is very important. In complicated cases it may be necessary to include imaging such as an MRI or X-ray.
Shoulder Treatment
Treatment will vary depending on your diagnosis. Our most frequently used approaches are chiropractic manipulation for improved movement, IASTM/Faktr aka: scraping for improving the orientation of collagen tissue (scar tissue) in the direction of muscle contraction for a stronger healing outcome, Kinesio taping for structural support and for inflammation control, and functional rehabilitation for improved flexibility and strengthening of the damaged tissue.
At Classic Chiropractic we have had great success with many different injuries surrounding the shoulder and would be happy to be of service.