Suffering from Shoulder Impingement? Find Relief with Chiropractic BioPhysics®

Shoulder pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints, affecting millions of individuals every day. Whether you are an athlete or simply suffering from an overuse injury, shoulder impingement can leave you feeling helpless and in pain. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available to help you regain your mobility and reduce your pain levels. Here at Symmetry Health Center, we offer a variety of treatments that can help you recover from shoulder impingement, including Chiropractic BioPhysics®, manual manipulation, and prescribed stretches. Read on to learn more about this effective treatment option and how it can help you.

What is shoulder impingement?

Shoulder impingement, often referred to as swimmer’s shoulder or thrower’s shoulder, is a condition where the rotator cuff tendons are intermittently trapped and compressed during shoulder movements. This causes injury to the shoulder tendons and bursa, resulting in painful movement of the shoulder. Symptoms typically include difficulty reaching up behind the back, pain with overhead use of the arm, and weakness of shoulder muscles. If left untreated, shoulder impingement can result in a more serious condition like a rotator cuff tear.

What is the most common cause of shoulder impingement?

The most common cause of shoulder impingement is overuse of the shoulder joint and muscles, largely due to repeated overhead activities such as lifting, throwing, or even excessive swimming. This repetitive use can lead to swelling and inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons, causing them to be squeezed between the parts of the shoulder. Another common cause is aging, as with time, the structures within our shoulders can change and lead to impingement. Finally, anatomical abnormalities such as bone spurs or changes in the shape of the bone can also cause impingement.

Immediate Shoulder Impingement Treatment

If you suspect that you have impinged your shoulder, it’s crucial to take immediate steps to mitigate further damage and alleviate pain. Start by resting the affected shoulder and avoid engaging in activities that exacerbate the pain. Applying ice to the shoulder can help reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs can also be beneficial. Gentle range-of-motion exercises can help maintain flexibility and strength in your shoulder, but these should be performed cautiously to avoid causing further harm. Despite these at-home remedies, it is imperative to seek expert care if your symptoms persist or worsen, as prolonged impingement can lead to more serious conditions such as a rotator cuff tear.

Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement

The symptoms of shoulder impingement can vary from person to person, but there are several common signs that may indicate this condition. Firstly, you may experience pain in your shoulder, particularly when you lift your arm overhead or move it in certain ways. This pain may be sharp when you use your shoulder and ache when you are resting. Secondly, you may notice weakness in your shoulder, especially when trying to reach behind your back or lift objects overhead. Lastly, shoulder impingement can cause a decrease in your ability to move your shoulder, also known as reduced range of motion. It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be indicative of other shoulder conditions, so it’s crucial to see a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis.

What is Chiropractic BioPhysics®?

Chiropractic BioPhysics® is an innovative approach to chiropractic care that focuses on restoring proper alignment throughout the body.

Chiropractic BioPhysics®, or CBP®, is a highly advanced, scientific, and proven chiropractic technique, which corrects and restores your spine back to its proper alignment. Unlike traditional chiropractic care, which is primarily focused on immediate pain relief and symptom management, CBP® goes beyond merely treating symptoms. This technique aims to address the root cause of the problem, optimizing your entire body’s health and function by correcting postural imbalances and misalignments in the spine. By leveraging principles of mathematics and physics, CBP® provides precise, predictable, and successful corrective care. It involves a comprehensive approach, including posture analysis, specific adjustments, exercises, and traction to achieve long-term results. This unique approach can significantly help patients with conditions such as shoulder impingement, relieving pain while also improving overall body function and quality of life.

How is Chiropractic BioPhysics® a useful treatment for shoulder impingement?

When it comes to shoulder impingement, Chiropractic BioPhysics® can be particularly helpful because it corrects spinal alignment, which can reduce the stress and strain on the shoulder joint. By correcting your spinal alignment through targeted adjustments, we can help reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and restore proper nerve function throughout your body. This approach is particularly effective for those who have tried traditional treatments without success.

In addition to Chiropractic BioPhysics®, our team also uses manual manipulation and prescribed stretches to help reduce your pain levels and restore mobility. Manual manipulation involves gentle movements and stretches that can help improve your range of motion and reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder joint. Prescribed stretches are customized exercises that you can do at home to help keep your shoulders mobile and reduce your risk of future pain and injury. We will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that meets your individual needs and goals.

The Symmetry Health Center Difference – Alameda and Oakland, CA

At Symmetry Health Center, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality, patient-centered care. When you come to our clinic, you will be treated like a member of our family. We will take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and develop a treatment plan that meets your individual needs. Our team has the expertise and experience necessary to help you recover from shoulder impingement and get back to doing the activities you love.

How do we craft a personalized treatment plan at Symmetry Health Center?

A personalized treatment plan carries immense value on the journey to recovery. It considers the unique circumstances, health history, lifestyle, and goals of each patient, ensuring the most effective care possible. A tailored plan not only targets the immediate issue, such as shoulder impingement, but also looks at the overall health of the individual. The ultimate goal is not just to alleviate pain or treat a condition, but also to enhance overall wellness and prevent future health issues.

At Symmetry Health Center, Dr. Cynthia Boyd and her team are dedicated to crafting personalized treatment plans. The process begins with an in-depth consultation and assessment. They listen attentively to the patient’s concerns and health objectives, and conduct a thorough examination, which may include postural analysis and other diagnostic tests. Based on the findings, Dr. Boyd and her team then design a unique treatment plan for the patient. This plan incorporates a combination of CBP® techniques, manual manipulations, and prescribed stretches, all tailored to the patient’s specific needs. Regular follow-up appointments allow the team to monitor progress, make necessary adjustments to the treatment, and ensure the patient is on the path to recovery and improved overall health.

Things to Avoid During Treatment

While undergoing Chiropractic BioPhysics® (CBP®) treatment for shoulder impingement, there are certain activities and behaviors to avoid in order to support the healing process. First, try to avoid heavy lifting or overhead activities, as these can exacerbate the condition. Second, avoid sleeping on the affected shoulder, which can place additional pressure on the joint. Third, prolonged periods of inactivity or immobility should be avoided, as this can lead to stiffness and further discomfort. Fourth, refrain from sudden or jerky movements of the shoulder, which can result in further injury. Lastly, poor postural habits such as slouching or hunching over a computer should be avoided, as this can lead to additional strain and misalignment. It is crucial to keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider throughout your treatment process to ensure any specific activities or behaviors that could impede your personal recovery are appropriately managed.

FAQ’s About Shoulder Impingement

• What is shoulder impingement?
  • Shoulder impingement is a common condition where the shoulder’s tendons get pinched as they pass through a narrow space. This could cause pain, inflammation, and reduced range of motion.
• What are the symptoms of shoulder impingement?
  • Symptoms typically include difficulty reaching up behind the back, pain with overhead use of the arm, weakness of shoulder muscles, and pain that worsens at night.
• How is shoulder impingement diagnosed?
  • Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and potentially imaging tests like an X-ray or MRI to rule out other conditions.
• How long does it take to recover from shoulder impingement with CBP® treatment?
  • The recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health. Typically, patients may see improvement in a few weeks, but full recovery might take several months.
• Do I need to stop exercising or participating in sports during treatment?
  • For optimal recovery, it may be beneficial to avoid activities that exacerbate the pain or inflammation during treatment. However, it’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider, who can provide specific guidance based on your situation.

Shoulder Impingement Treatment in Oakland & Alameda, CA

If you are suffering from shoulder impingement, there is no need to suffer in silence. Chiropractic BioPhysics® is an effective treatment option that can help reduce your pain levels and improve your mobility. With the help of our skilled and experienced team at Symmetry Health Center, you can regain your quality of life and get back to doing the things you love. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you.