Chiropractic and Frozen Shoulder Relief
March 3, 2022What exactly is “Frozen Shoulder?”
Frozen shoulder is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder. It begins with trauma or a surgery that can cause chronic inflammation. Frozen shoulders are most likely to occur in people who are 35-50 years old and more often in women. If a frozen shoulder is not treated, it can result in scarring, thickening, and shrinkage of the joint capsule. The treatment of this condition often involves chiropractic care and specific therapeutic exercises.
Patients often present with an inability to raise their shoulders above their head. Shoulder motions tend to be rigid and strained instead of being more smooth. Pain is often associated with certain shoulder positions and issues with sleep become more constant. Activities of daily living become more bothersome and patients start to be concerned with the possibility of surgical intervention. Pain medication often tends to not be as helpful and corticosteroid shots are often prescribed to help patients deal with their shoulder issues.
Chiropractic and Frozen Shoulder Relief
When a patient arrives at our office with frozen shoulder symptoms we recommend a combination of chiropractic adjustments, exercises, active release therapy on the shoulder complex, electrical stimulation with ice and traditional Chinese acupuncture with electrical dry needling. We also will apply kinesiology tape to the shoulder, as needed, to provide support and stability.
Exercises specific to frozen shoulders help increase the range of motion and keep the joint moving so it does not tense up. “Motion is lotion” is what we say in order to keep the shoulder active and healthy. We also offer massage therapy that is targeted towards helping the shoulder release adhesions and gain mobility back.
For at home therapy, we advise ice and continuance of in-office exercises to help with maintenance and provide comfort in between sessions. We ask for patients to not to sleep with arms overhead and also to not sleep on their sides. Back sleeping is best with arms at your sides to not aggravate the shoulder. Side sleeping will almost always create a step backwards in care.
The Van Ness Chiropractic Difference
If you think you have a frozen shoulder or know of someone who may be experiencing this condition, we can help. At Van Ness Chiropractic, we realize that managing stress and imbalance in the body is not one size fits all. We have the clinical knowledge and expert staff to offer treatment that is both effective and empowering. Call us today at 847-842-8070 to set up your appointment for a comprehensive examination and get on the road to health today. You can also visit us at vannesschiro.com to find out more.
