Shoulder Pain

Shoulder Pain: Common Causes and How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Shoulder pain is a common complaint that can interfere with everyday tasks and limit the ability to perform simple movements. Among the most frequent causes of shoulder pain are rotator cuff tears and bursitis, both of which can cause significant discomfort and restrict mobility.

A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of the muscles or tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint is damaged. This injury typically happens due to repetitive motion, overuse, or trauma, and can cause pain, weakness, and difficulty lifting the arm. Bursitis, on the other hand, is the inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the shoulder joint. When the bursa becomes irritated, it can lead to swelling, pain, and stiffness, often making overhead movements difficult and painful.

At The Barefoot Chiro, we utilize a combination of chiropractic techniques and evidence-based therapies to treat shoulder pain caused by rotator cuff tears and bursitis. Chiropractic care focuses on the proper alignment of the shoulder and spine, which can alleviate pressure on the shoulder joint and surrounding muscles, improving mobility and reducing discomfort. Specific adjustments and soft tissue therapies, such as dry needling and IASTM, are used to relax tense muscles and release adhesions, promoting healing.

In addition, exercise rehabilitation plays a crucial role in the treatment of shoulder pain. We provide tailored rehab exercises designed to strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder joint, improve range of motion, and prevent further injury. Strengthening the rotator cuff muscles is particularly important for those with rotator cuff tears to reduce strain on the injured area and restore stability. For individuals suffering from bursitis, we incorporate gentle stretches and mobility exercises to reduce inflammation and improve joint function.

One of the most effective adjunct therapies we offer for shoulder pain is cold laser therapy. This non-invasive therapy promotes healing by stimulating cellular repair, improving circulation, and reducing inflammation, making it especially beneficial for conditions like bursitis and rotator cuff tears.

With a combination of chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, exercise rehabilitation, and cold laser therapy, we provide a holistic approach to managing shoulder pain, helping patients return to their daily activities and restore their quality of life.

Reference Material for Shoulder Pain and Chiropractic Care

For more information on rotator cuff tears, bursitis, and chiropractic treatments for shoulder pain, we recommend the following resources:

  • American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS): Provides detailed information on rotator cuff tears and bursitis.
  • National Institutes of Health (NIH): Comprehensive, evidence-based articles on musculoskeletal health and shoulder injuries.
  • Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics: Research on the effectiveness of chiropractic treatments for shoulder pain and related conditions. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics

Conditions we Treat