Chiropractic care for shoulder impingement

Shoulder impingement is a common condition that causes pain and limited mobility in the shoulder joint. It occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff become irritated or inflamed as they pass through the narrow space between the acromion (a part of the shoulder blade) and the humerus (upper arm bone). While conventional treatments such as medication, physical therapy, and surgery are often recommended, chiropractic care offers a non-invasive and holistic approach to alleviate symptoms. 

Shoulder impingement is typically the result of repetitive overhead motions, poor posture, muscle imbalances, or structural abnormalities in the shoulder joint. Common symptoms include shoulder pain, weakness, stiffness, and difficulty raising the arm.

How can chiropractic help?

While chiropractic treatment cannot directly resolve all cases of shoulder impingement, it can be a part of a comprehensive approach to manage the condition. Here are some ways chiropractic care may assist:

1. Evaluation and diagnosis: A chiropractor can perform a thorough examination to assess for shoulder impingement and identify any contributing factors such as misalignments, postural imbalances, or restricted joint mobility.

2. Manual adjustments: Chiropractic adjustments can also be applied to the spine and other joints, including the shoulder. If misalignments or restrictions in the spine or other parts of the body are affecting your shoulder mechanics, chiropractic adjustments may help improve joint alignment and mobility. 

3. Soft tissue therapies: Chiropractors often utilize soft tissue techniques such as myofascial release, trigger point therapy, or instrument-assisted techniques to address muscular tension and tightness around the shoulder joint. These therapies can help alleviate muscle imbalances and reduce the compression contributing to impingement.

4. Rehabilitation exercises: Chiropractors may prescribe specific exercises and stretches to strengthen the shoulder muscles, improve posture, and enhance shoulder stability. Targeted exercises can help correct muscle imbalances, promote proper movement patterns, and support the healing process.

5. Postural guidance: Poor posture can contribute to shoulder impingement. Chiropractors can provide recommendations on ergonomics, posture correction, and body mechanics to minimize stress on the shoulder joint and reduce the risk of impingement.

6. Lifestyle recommendations: Chiropractors can offer lifestyle advice related to nutrition, hydration, stress management, and ergonomic modifications. These recommendations can support overall health and well-being, which may indirectly influence the shoulder condition.

It's important to note that the effectiveness of chiropractic care for shoulder impingement can vary depending on the individual case. For more severe or complex cases, chiropractic care may be part of a multidisciplinary approach that involves collaboration with other healthcare professionals such as orthopedic specialists or physical therapists.

If you suspect you have shoulder impingement, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a chiropractor or a medical doctor, for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

References:

Pribicevic M, Pollard H, Bonello R, de Luca K. A systematic review of manipulative therapy for the treatment of shoulder pain. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2010 Nov-Dec;33(9):679-89. doi: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2010.08.019. Epub 2010 Oct 18.