The Newsletter About Caring for Your Health NEWSLETTER
Shrug It Off! Did you know that your shoulders are your most flexible and movable joints? Your shoulders have to move through an incredible 180 degrees of motion, while still maintaining stability and strength. The shoulder joint acts like a ball in a very shallow socket that is part of the shoulder blade. Some of the most important muscles in the rotator cuff are actually the smallest. The rotator cuff is made up of 4 muscles that are small, but vital to keeping the ball stable in the socket. When these muscles are weak or injured, the ball can jam up into the socket of the shoulder blade, causing inflammation and pain. Your shoulders are extremely complex, comprised of multiple muscles, tendons, and bones. They provide you with the mobility you need to performmany of your tasks throughout the day. If you have been living with shoulder pain, you can find natural relief with our physical therapy services. To learn more about how we can help you get back to your daily life, free of shoulder pains, contact Rising Sun Physical Therapy today! Understanding your shoulder pain: Your shoulder is a “ball-and-socket joint,” meaning that the humerus (head of the upper arm bone) fits perfectly in the corresponding space within the scapula (shoulder blade). Each end of the bone is protected by a thick layer of cartilage that prevents the bones from rubbing together. Your shoulders can accomplish several physical feats due to their structure — however, this also means that they are susceptible to an increased risk of injury because of
What’s Causing Your Shoulder Pain? their complexity. If something becomes damaged in the make- up of the shoulders, pain and discomfort can develop. This pain may range from a dull ache to shooting pains, depending on the severity of the condition. If your pain is stemming from tendon impingement, it will generally occur as you lift your arm, fading before it is raised completely skyward. If your pain is a result of shoulder degeneration, it is likely that you will feel persistent aches every time you move your arm in certain directions. Pain from an acute injury can be sudden and intense, making it difficult for you to move your shoulder at all. Common conditions that may be causing your shoulder pain include: • Strains and sprains. A strain occurs when a muscle or tendon is stretched too far or torn. A sprain occurs when a ligament is stretched too far or torn. Strains and sprains can result in an ongoing shoulder pain that may make it difficult to partake in exercise or even daily tasks. If the strain or sprain is minor, it can sometimes be iced at home and healed with rest. More severe strains and sprains will often require physical therapy treatments. • Torn cartilage. When a cartilage tears, you may experience a number of painful symptoms. You may experience decreased strength and a limited range of motion in the affected shoulder. You may also experience pain when moving your arm in certain ways. If you are suffering from a torn cartilage, physical therapy can provide relief. (Continued Inside)
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