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The shoulder consists of a ball and socket joint which is held in place by muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Falls, repetitive motion, and overuse are general causes of injuries to the shoulder.
Shoulder injuries are typically treated via specialized techniques and modalities to decrease pain and inflammation. In addition, we provide exercises to stabilize and strengthen the shoulder, manual stretching to regain functional range of motion, and education on shoulder injury prevention.
Arthritis
Often a result of a degeneration of the gleno-humeral joint, arthritis is inflammation which causes pain and a decrease in motion.
Bursitis
In the shoulder, a pad-like sac containing fluid acts to reduce friction between bones and tendons. This structure, called a bursa, may become inflamed due to repeated overhead movement or overuse. Inflammation of the bursa is called bursitis.
Fracture
A shoulder fracture is a break in one or more of the bones that make up the shoulder. A fracture can happen as a result of a fall or trauma.
Frozen Shoulder
This condition can also be referred to as adhesive capsulitis. The ligaments and capsule of the shoulder contract causing pain and loss in range of motion. This condition often responds well to stretching.
Impingement
An impingement can happen as a result of a weak rotator cuff and swollen bursa. A narrowing of the space in the shoulder allowing movement causes structures to get pinched. Impingement is often characterized by pain, pinching, and stiffness. Overhead motions and repetitive motion are usually the cause of the problem.
Rotator Cuff Strain
Overstretching or overuse of the muscles that make up the rotator cuff can cause a rotator cuff strain. It often involves pain in the shoulder. The strain is often a result of "overdoing it."
Rotator Cuff Tear
A rotator cuff tear occurs when the muscles that make up the rotator cuff are separated or pulled apart. All or one of the muscles may be affected. A torn rotator cuff can happen as a result of trauma, ongoing tendonitis, or overuse.
Tendonitis
Tendonitis occurs when one or more of the tendons that are involved with shoulder movement become inflamed. A tendon is the portion of muscle that attaches the muscle to the bone. Inflammation of the tendons may cause a narrowing of the space in the shoulder that allows movement.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
This problem often affects musicians and includes symptoms of fatigue and numbness of the arm or hand with use. The thoracic outlet refers to the area of the body where the neck, chest, and shoulder come together. Problems occur in this area when nerves and blood vessles become compressed.
