The shoulder is one of the easiest joints in the body to injure, but early chiropractic treatment by Dr. KenGee Ehrlich can help relieve the pain and bring full range of motion back to your shoulder. When you visit The Good Chiropractor, located in Los Angeles, you’ll have access to expert chiropractic adjustments and rehabilitative therapy for your shoulder.
Shoulder Pain Q & A
by KenGee Ehrlich, DC
What are the top causes of shoulder pain?
Think about how you can twirl your arm around, and it’s easy to understand that the shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most unstable joints, and it’s surrounded by nerves, tendons, and ligaments that are easily damaged to become a source of shoulder pain. Some of the most common causes of shoulder pain include:
- Rotator cuff tear
- Instability due to injury such as dislocated shoulder
- Overuse leading to inflammation
- Bursitis or tendonitis, also called impingement syndrome
- Ligament injury, called acromio-clavicular tear or A/C separation
- Calcium deposits in the tendons
- Arthritis
- Frozen shoulder
- Referred pain — pain that originates in the neck, back, or internal organs, yet is felt in the shoulder
When should you see the chiropractor?
Since shoulder pain is common, it’s good to know when pain needs immediate attention from Dr. KenGee. If you experience these symptoms, call us to schedule an appointment:
- Difficulty holding objects
- Reduced arm function, especially if it’s hard to raise your arm
- Swelling or bruising around the shoulder or arm
- Signs of infection, such as fever, redness, warmth or swelling
- Shoulder pain that persists when you’re resting
- Shoulder pain that lasts more than a few days
- Recurring shoulder pain
- Shoulder joint that appears deformed
- Unusual twinges or aches in the shoulder area
What chiropractic treatments relieve shoulder pain?
Chiropractic therapy effectively relieves shoulder pain from most causes, but Dr. KenGee will do a thorough evaluation to assess for referred pain and any potential underlying health conditions. The goal is to gently relieve pain and bring back full function, so depending on your condition, you may need adjustments of the shoulder, neck, and upper back. We’ll also teach you exercises to build strength and motion, while avoiding further damage.
Outside the clinic, it’s important to care properly for an injured shoulder. That may include alternating ice and heat, or a gentle stretching routine. We may also teach ergonomics to reduce stress on the shoulders with proper posture. If you continue to have pain, call us so that Dr. KenGee can reevaluate your shoulder and change treatment if necessary.