DOES IT HURT TO SWIM? DON’T LET SHOULDER PAIN STEAL YOUR SUMMER
With summer activities heating up, it’s important to address any aches you have sooner rather than later. All types of people, from surfers to little-league players, come into M3 this time of year because of shoulder pain. To help more people have fun in the sun, here are some common reasons for sore shoulders to help you treat the problem before it becomes debilitating. FROZEN SHOULDER As the name suggests, this condition is defined by stiffness and loss of mobility. It begins with pain caused by any movement of your shoulder, which is gradually replaced by a stiffening of your joints, reducing your range of motion. We typically see this condition in people who have had their arm in a cast, had a stroke, or were otherwise prevented from moving their shoulder for an extended period of time. Thankfully, range of motion exercises can “thaw” your joints and get you moving comfortably again. SHOULDER IMPINGEMENT SYNDROME Sometimes known as “swimmer’s shoulder,” impingement usually results from repetitive shoulder activities — especially those that involve reaching overhead. These motions can cause the tendons in your rotator cuff to
be pinched, or “impinged,” under your collar bone, leading to tears. The result is persistent pain that gets sharper when reaching overhead or behind the back. Performing a daily regimen of stretches recommended by your physical therapist helps ease the pain as your body heals. HYPERMOBILITY SYNDROME Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to be too flexible. Ligaments and joint capsules can become loose from overreaching during repetitive motion activities, or simply from growth spurts in kids. While hypermobility in the shoulder means you have a greater range of motion than the average person, there can be other debilitating symptoms involved, including pain, weakness, and even changes in your ability to move. Physical therapy exercises work to strengthen your stretched ligaments to relieve these conditions. There are many forms of shoulder pain, which is why it’s important to identify and address the root of the problem. From there, you can begin exercises designed to treat your specific ailment. Luckily, this month Roberta Brehm is conducting a shoulder pain workshop in our West Hills Clinic to teach patients the proper form for shoulder pain exercises. Call us today for a free screening if you’re having problems with your shoulders!
WATERMELON CUCUMBER SKEWERS Skewers are a Fourth of July favorite, but these are not your classic kebabs. They’re a fresh, light, and fun way to start a barbecue. Oh, and they don’t require any actual cooking.
TAKE A BREAK
INGREDIENTS
• 1 medium-sized watermelon, cubed • 2 cucumbers, cut into 1/4-inch rounds • 1 block feta cheese, cut into small cubes • 1 bunch fresh mint leaves • Salt, to taste
EQUIPMENT
• 1 packet of bamboo skewers
DIRECTIONS
1. Assemble skewers by placing one watermelon cube, one cucumber round, one feta cube, and one mint leaf on skewer in that order. Repeat until skewer is full. 2. Lightly season with salt and chill in fridge until right before serving.
LA · 310.275.4137 / WEST HILLS · 747.888.3562 | 3
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