Imagine your shoulder joint as a ball-and-socket mechanism. The “ball” is the upper arm bone, while the “socket” is part of your shoulder blade. Around this joint is the shoulder joint capsule, which acts like a protective sheath for smooth shoulder movement. When this capsule becomes tight, thick, and inflamed, you’re likely experiencing a frozen shoulder.
Frozen shoulders restrict mobility, which can interfere with daily activities. Fortunately, chiropractic care can effectively treat this condition, and it’s becoming increasingly popular for pain management and rehabilitation.
In this blog, let’s explore the specific benefits of chiropractic care for frozen shoulders.
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, happens when the protective tissue surrounding your shoulder joint becomes stiff and swollen, making it painful and difficult to move your shoulder normally.
Researchers have yet to find the exact cause of frozen shoulders. However, certain conditions are involved in its development.
You should also consider the following factors that may increase the likelihood of developing adhesive capsulitis.
Detecting early signs is vital for effective treatment and prevention of any condition. A frozen shoulder is no different; initially, it might feel like minor shoulder pain, but it can worsen over time if not addressed promptly.
A frozen shoulder progresses slowly and may take two to nine months to develop. Its symptoms include the following:
Three stages detail the progression of a frozen shoulder.
Treating a frozen shoulder demands a holistic approach. This condition can be complex and have diverse underlying causes, and each patient presents unique needs and challenges.
Studies show that chiropractic care can be a highly effective alternative for people suffering from this condition. Let’s delve into the mechanisms of chiropractic adjustments and frozen shoulders.
Chiropractic care believes in natural, holistic solutions. The body's systems naturally work together to seek proper structure.How do chiropractors diagnose and treat frozen shoulders? The process typically involves a physical exam, a range of motion tests, and imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to fully assess shoulder movement and confirm the diagnosis.
Once the consultation and examination are complete, collaborative treatment planning takes place. Chiropractors work with various healthcare professionals and establish clear lines of communication to create a personalized plan considering each patient’s preferences, values, and needs.
Here are some effective chiropractic care techniques to restore shoulder joint function and alleviate pain.
Chiropractic care effectively addresses all aspects of musculoskeletal conditions like adhesive capsulitis. From shoulder pain relief to proactive healing, let's explore seven benefits of chiropractic care for frozen shoulders.
Targeted chiropractic adjustments can relieve frozen shoulder pain caused by inflammation in the shoulder joint. Chiropractors typically focus on areas directly or indirectly affecting shoulder mobility, giving them controlled thrusts, massages, and stretches. These help restore proper alignment, reduce swelling and nerve irritation, and promote natural healing.
Chiropractic techniques involve exercises aimed at improving shoulder flexibility and mobility. Pendulum stretches, wall rotations, inward and outward rotations, finger walks, and towel stretches are some examples of mobility exercises for a frozen shoulder. These techniques help gradually restore your shoulder's range of motion.
No scalpels, no stitches. Unlike surgeries, chiropractic care is a non-invasive treatment option that involves shorter recovery times, lower risks of complications, and preserved shoulder function. People often view chiropractic treatment as a safe and effective alternative, eliminating their worries about invasive procedures.
Chiropractic intervention can enhance blood circulation, which speeds up healing and reduces inflammation in a frozen shoulder. A study from the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that thoracic spinal manipulation significantly increased blood flow, suggesting a potential short-term effect on vascular function.
With chiropractic care, you can experience greater shoulder mobility and fewer medications. This natural, holistic approach reduces reliance on pain medications when treating frozen shoulders. Avoiding long-term medication use reduces the risk of unwanted side effects and potential issues with other drugs, contributing to a better quality of life.
To improve shoulder health and address all contributing factors, chiropractors recommend lifestyle changes related to nutrition, posture, ergonomics, and self-care. This comprehensive approach offers patients not just treatment but long-term health benefits.
Lastly, chiropractic care offers customized treatment plans to meet individual patient needs and produce optimal results. The process typically involves a thorough assessment and diagnosis and periodic evaluations to ensure the treatment's effectiveness.
At North East Chiropractic, for instance, a patient received treatment for neck and shoulder pain focused on stretching for relief and better sleep. Another patient with severe neck and shoulder stiffness received massage therapy and adjustments, which greatly reduced their pain. Personalized chiropractic care plans are essential for improving shoulder function and managing pain effectively.
Skip the ice packs and meds; embrace chiropractic care for a drug-free solution to frozen shoulders. It soothes, aligns, and promotes long-term, flexible, pain-free shoulder mobility.
Let North East Chiropractic Center accompany you in your journey to healthy living. We provide chiropractic services in Fort Wayne, New Haven, Maples, Townley, and surrounding communities. Our personalized treatments, led by Dr. Adam Osenga, incorporate cutting-edge techniques and expert counseling to help patients significantly improve the quality of their lives.
Book a consultation today to discover more benefits of chiropractic care for frozen shoulders and get the relief you need.
Monday 8:30am – 6:00pm
Tuesday 9:00am – 4:30pm
Wednesday 8:30am – 6:00pm
Thursday 8:30am – 6:00pm
Friday 9:00am – 4:00pm
Saturday 8:30am – 12:30pm
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