SUDOKU
THE 5 MOST COMMON SHOULDER INJURIES
Shoulder pain is a common affliction, and it can be debilitating. Whether your shoulder pain is chronic or acute, understanding its root cause and working out a care plan are essential steps in reducing or eliminating your discomfort. Here are the five most common shoulder injuries: BURSITIS Bursitis occurs when the fluid-filled sacs, called bursa, that act as cushions in the joints and help reduce friction become inflamed. Symptoms of bursitis include pain around the outside or tip of the shoulder, reduced range of motion, and pain when the arm is raised above the shoulders, such as when washing hair. TENDINITIS Tendinitis occurs as a result of an inflamed tendon, and it can be either acute or chronic. Acute tendinitis can result from excessive ball throwing or other overhead activities, like swimming or work- associated repeated motions. Chronic tendinitis is more likely to result from a degenerative disease like arthritis or age-related wear and tear. Symptoms include pain when reaching behind your back, a clicking sound when raising your arm, stiffness, pain, and swelling in the front of your shoulder and the side of your arm. ARTHRITIS The most common expression of arthritis in the shoulder is osteoarthritis, sometimes also called “wear and tear” arthritis. If you’ve ever seen an old dog with stiff hips, chances are osteoarthritis is to blame. Symptoms typically begin in middle age and worsen with time. They include swelling, pain, and stiffness. INSTABILITY Shoulder instability occurs when the upper arm bone is forced out of the shoulder socket. This is also known as shoulder dislocation. Symptoms include pain, repeated instances of the shoulder giving out, and a persistent feeling of looseness in the shoulder. ROTATOR CUFF TEARS The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that come together as tendons to hold the shoulder in place, and rotator cuff tears are common in adults. Tendon tears can also result from an acute injury, and tendons can either partially or completely tear. Common symptoms include weakness when lifting or rotating your arm and doing other specific movements.
DATE TRUFFLES
Inspired by The Minimalist Baker
Valentine’s Day is all about love … and chocolate. Enjoy these chocolate peanut butter date truffles with your date this Valentine’s Day.
INGREDIENTS
• 1 lb medjool dates, pitted (about 1 1/2 cups) • 1/2 tsp sea salt • Warm water
• 1/4 cup peanut butter • 1 cup bittersweet or dark chocolate, chopped • 1 tbsp coconut oil, melted
DIRECTIONS
1. Using a food processor, blend dates and sea salt until dough can be formed into a ball. Slowly add enough warm water to mixture to thicken dough. 2. Roll dough into tablespoon-sized balls. Freeze for 20–30 minutes. 3. In microwave, warm 1/4 cup peanut butter for 30 seconds, then drizzle peanut butter on top of balls. Freeze balls for another 20 minutes. 4. Meanwhile, in microwave, warm chocolate with coconut oil until melted. Stir well. 5. Coat balls in chocolate and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. 6. Top with additional salt and freeze for 30 minutes. Serve at room temperature.
Contact Vital Care Physical Therapy at (623) 544-0300 so we can help you heal today!
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