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sports injuries
Chiropractic care for shoulder pain
Gentle chiropractic can effectively treat shoulder pain. Shoulder pain is musculoskeletal pain. Gentle chiropractic care shines as an effective, drug free way to relieve musculoskeletal pain.
Accepting new patients. Call 855-509-5400 to schedule your appointment.
We Accept All Major Medical Health Insurance and Medicare.
The shoulder is a complex arrangement of bone, muscles, nerves, bursa, tendons, and ligaments. No other joint in the body has the range of motion that a fully functioning shoulder does. It’s easily the most mobile joint in the body. This incredible mobility and flexibility comes at a price. Shoulders are prone to injury.
If shoulder pain comes on suddenly and was not caused by an injury, call 911 immediately. Shoulder pain can be a symptom of a heart attack.
It’s important to diagnose the cause of shoulder pain. We will perform a variety of orthopedic tests to determine the cause of shoulder pain. Imaging will be ordered if the prescribed treatment plan isn’t providing pain relief.
Causes of Shoulder Pain:
Golfing
Common shoulder problems affecting golfers include rotator cuff tears, long head of the biceps tendon injuries, shoulder impingement, osteoarthritis, and shoulder joint instability. Due to the golf swing, the lead shoulder is particularly vulnerable to injury. Golf injuries often respond well to nonsurgical gentle chiropractic treatment.
Rotator Cuff Injuries
If you’re a sports fan, you’ve probably heard of a rotator cuff injury. Rotator cuff injuries are a common reason for shoulder pain.
Four different muscles and associated tendons make up the rotator cuff. This unique arrangement of muscles, tendons surround a ball socket like joint allowing you to raise, rotate and move your arm in a wide variety of ways.
There are three different types of rotator cuff injury: 1
- RCT or Rotator Cuff Tendinitis: the tendons are irritated and/or damaged,
- RCI or Rotator Cuff Impingement: the bony process on the scapula is rubbing (impinging) upon the tendons and bursa of the rotator cuff.
- RCB or Rotator Cuff Bursitis : the bursa is inflamed and swollen
Postural Syndrome
Poor office posture injuries (postural syndrome) are repetitive use injuries. Poor ergonomics can cause musculoskeletal disorders. Ergonomics describes how you interact with your environment. Poor workspace ergonomics can result in
- headaches
- shoulder pain
- back pain
- neck pain
- wrist pain
Postural syndrome is common if you spend 8-10 hours a day with
- your shoulders rolled forward
- your head jutting forward
- and your upper back slouched.
The human body is great at “making do” with whatever situation you put it in. It will do it’s best to adapt. Ifyou keep stressing your body, you will cause a repetitive use injury. In repetitive use injuries, pain develops over time. As you can see from the list above, shoulder pain is part of postural syndrome.
Chiropractic care is very effective at relieving shoulder pain and other symptoms of postural postural syndrome. For long term relief, you should address your workplace ergonomics. Click here to learn how to create an ergonomic home office.
Frozen Shoulder
Adhesive capsulitis (a,k.a. frozen shoulder) is sneaky. It isn’t caused by an injury. Patients will try to describe it as a dull pain located deep inside the shoulder.
In the earliest stages, the symptoms are mild becoming more severe over time. Over time, the shoulder may become almost impossible to move. Thus the moniker, “frozen shoulder.” 2
Frozen shoulder can be treated with gentle chiropractic care.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis of the shoulder is rare and usually caused by a previous injury. Chiropractic care maximizes the function of arthritic joints. Gentle chiropractic care can treat osteoarthritis 3 and is recommended for arthritis pain management.
Chiropractic Care of Shoulder Pain
Chiropractors focus on the relationships between the structure and function of joints, muscles and other soft tissues. They accomplish drug free pain relief without surgery through manual manipulations and other therapies. These therapies reduce inflammation and swelling and aid in natural healing.
There are many therapies chiropractors use to relieve shoulder pain. Chiropractic treatments include:
- Chiropractic adjustments
- prescribed exercises
- ultrasound
- electrical muscle stimulation
- application of ice/heat
These chiropractic therapies can
- provide pain relief
- restore mobility
- increase range of motion.
Most patients choosing chiropractic care of shoulder pain are able to return to their normal activities within 6-8 weeks without resorting to steroid injections or surgery.
Accepting new patients. Call 855-509-5400 to schedule your appointment.
We Accept All Major Medical Health Insurance and Medicare.
If you’re experiencing shoulder pain, call Advanced Wellness Solutions to schedule your appointment.
Preventing Running Injuries
If you choose to run to stay fit, your top priority should be preventing running injuries. Regular gentle chiropractic care can help prevent running injuries.
Running is a great way to stay in shape both physically and mentally. Physical activity in general offers huge mental and psychological benefits. Exercise causes the body to release feel-good chemicals known as endorphins. A 2017 study found that adults who engaged in an hour of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) experienced a significant increase in endorphin release compared with those who engaged in an hour of less demanding physical activity.1
Accepting new patients. Call 855-509-5400 to schedule your appointment.
We accept all major medical health insurance and Medicare.
When the article Tiger Woods on career regret: Running ‘destroyed my body and my knees appeared in my news feed, I was intrigued.
“Tiger Woods was asked by a fan what he would tell his younger self The five-time Masters winner responded, ‘Not to run so much.’ Woods would run 30 miles a week for the first six years of his Tour. He believes that it ultimately caused him injuries resulting in four back and five knee surgeries “
Of course, other factors played a role in Tiger’s knee and back injuries. I believe the biomechanics of the golf swing played a significant role in Tiger’s injuries. The modern golf swing encourages maximum rotation of the spine relative to the hips. This increased twisting of the lumbar spine, combined with a more powerful downswing, puts increased force on spinal discs and facet joints and tremendous pressure on the trailing side of the spine. It’s why 72 % of pro golfers receive regular chiropractic care provided by PGA chiropractic staff.2
Running can be hard on your body.
From what I have seen in my practice, I would agree with Tiger. Running can be extremely hard on your body. If you choose to run to stay fit, your top priority should be to prevent running injuries. Many runners credit regular chiropractic care as a key element in preventing running injuries.
In my practice, I see a fair number of injuries related to running. I often see these injuries in new runners. Most of my patients who have started running are trying to get in shape and/or lose weight. Some are following Tiger’s lead and are running to improve their golf game.
Running injuries vary in severity. Fortunately, they are straightforward to treat.
I often recommend cross-training to my patients who enjoy running. Sadly, patients do not always follow my advice. When they don’t, they end up back in my office with the same or new injury due to their new workout routine. This can be very frustrating for the patient. They want to get in shape or improve their golf game, but injuries set them back and leave them feeling discouraged.
Are you setting yourself up for injury by running?
This brings me back to the Tiger Woods article. Are golfers and other athletes setting themselves up for failure by running? In my opinion, many are. It may be an unpopular opinion, but as a practicing chiropractor, I believe now more than ever, “Not everyone should be a runner.” There I said it, out loud. Here’s why.
Running is a high-impact, repetitive activity that puts a lot of stress on your body. This can lead to both acute and chronic injuries, especially if proper protocol is not followed. If you’re going to run, it’s important to focus on preventing running injuries.
Cross-training to prevent running injuries.
Cross-training is one way to prevent running injuries. There are several exercises that can be just as effective in weight loss and conditioning without the risk of injury or high-impact running. These activities include bike riding, walking, and swimming.
Running isn’t for everyone, and that is okay. There are alternative forms of exercise that are effective and may be better suited for your body type. Do not be ashamed if running is not for you.
Preventing Running Injuries
Sixty percent of runners experience an injury severe enough to sideline them from activity.
There are many running injuries:
- broken bones
- lacerations and sprains
- overuse or chronic injuries
Broken bones, lacerations and sprains require immediate medical attention.
Most running injuries are from low-grade, abnormal force applied repeatedly over a prolonged period of time. These are classified as overuse injuries.
Overuse injuries from running include:
- stress fractures,
- shin splints,
- iliotibial band (ITB) syndrome,
- runners’ knee,
- Achilles tendonitis,
- plantar fasciitis
The thing about overuse injuries is that they happen slowly over time. If your hip or knee starts to hurt for no apparent reason, it’s probably an overuse injury.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
If you’re going to run for exercise, you must address four key factors:
- proper shoes
- flexibility
- strengthening
- training schedules.
#1 Proper shoes:
I can’t overstate the importance of proper footwear if you’re going to run. Shoes are the only equipment you need to run. The wrong shoe or an ill-fitted shoe can wreak havoc on your body if it is not appropriate for your foot and running style.
The best way to avoid injury is to prevent it. Running shoes are the only protective equipment runners have to safeguard themselves from injury. That’s why choosing the right running shoe is important. Be sure to find a specialty running store to ensure you have the right shoes and fit.
#2 Flexibility:
Lack of flexibility can make one prone to overuse injuries listed above. This is why cross-training is important. Yoga and Pilates can directly improve your flexibility.
#3 Strengthening:
Appropriate strength of the core and other major muscle groups are crucial for high-impact exercise. Such cross-training options include Yoga, Pilates, and Strength training with weights. These can offer reduced risk of injury, activation of other muscle groups and aid in injury recovery without sacrificing fitness level.
#4 Training Schedules:
Many researchers acknowledge that “training error” is the main source of injury. These training errors include rapidly changing the volume ran and/or rapidly changing the running pace. Both changes can lead to their own set of injuries.
A study published in the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy 3 showed that rapid change in running volume may lead to the development of patellofemoral pain syndrome, iliotibial band syndrome, and patellar tendinopathy, while change in running pace may be associated with the development of Achilles tendinopathy, gastrocnemius injuries, and plantar fasciitis.
In plain English, runners need to stick to a training schedule and plan the distance and pace according to individual fitness levels. There are many couch-to-5k programs for the novice runner.
The importance of stretching and warming up.
Stretching and warming up are important and can help to avoid injury. If you do not have time to warm-up and stretch, you do not have time to run.
Even with the best preparation and strict adherence to your training schedule, running injuries can still happen.
If an injury occurs, it is important to react appropriately. A 2017 survey 4 asked athletes and coaches, “Which factors do you believe influence the risk of running injuries?” An overwhelming majority of the athletes and coaches reported “Ignoring pain” as a risk factor for running injury.
If you have acute pain, you should seek medical attention ASAP.
First Aid for Running Injuries
If you have an overuse injury:
- Reduce training, using pain as a guide
- Apply ice to injured area 15 to 20 minutes, three to four times per day
- Use compression to decrease swelling
- Elevate injured area if possible
- Take an over-the-counter pain medication (OTC) as directed on package instructions.
Using Over the Counter Pain Relievers
OTC pain relievers are easily available, aren’t habit-forming, and won’t leave you groggy, dizzy, or even constipated. However, OTC painkillers can:
- increase the risk of heart attack or stroke
- cause stomach ulcers,
- bleeding,
- liver and kidney problems.
These risks increase with sustained use. OTC pain relievers are not considered safe for long-term use. If you need to use pain relievers for more than 7 days in a row, see your primary care physician.
Determine the cause of the injury
It’s important to determine the cause of the injury to prevent future injuries. Common causes of running injuries are tight muscles or weak hip muscles. A knowledgeable chiropractor or physical therapist can help you determine the cause of your injury.
You should seek treatment for your running injuries if:
- pain continues with decreased training
- the pain persists beyond 10-14 days
- you need pain medications to train
- the pain stops if you rest but resumes when you begin training
Did running play a part in Tiger Woods’ myriad of injuries? I suspect it did. Combining long-distance running with the physically demanding sport of golf was brutal on his body. Could he avoid his injuries and surgeries? Hindsight is always 20/20.
Wisdom is learning from other people’s mistakes, which is why I’m sharing this information with you now.
Accepting new patients. Call 855-509-5400 to schedule your appointment.
We accept all major medical health insurance and Medicare.
The best advice is to listen to your body. Pain is a signal that something is wrong. Don’t ignore it.
Neck Pain and Whiplash
Neck pain and whiplash are common complaints, especially if you’ve been injured in a Florida car accident.
Whiplash is a generic term used to describe a hyperextension and flexion injury to the neck. It is a soft tissue injury to the neck.
Accepting new patients. Call 855-509-5400 to schedule your appointment.
We accept all major medical health insurance and Medicare.
Did you know that whiplash injuries aren’t limited to car accidents? A fall, a sports injury, or anytime there’s a sudden jolt of the head can cause whiplash.
What is whiplash?
Whiplash describes a soft tissue injury to the neck. Whiplash is caused by a forceful back and forth movement of the neck. The force of the back and forth movement causes injury to the ligaments and muscles of the neck. Whiplash is technically a strain/sprain injury to the ligaments and the muscles of the neck.
What causes neck pain and whiplash?
Any large force that causes the head to “whip” back and forth can cause whiplash.
Such forces include:
- Car accidents: rear-end collisions.
- Physical abuse or violence
- Contact sports: football, soccer, and lacrosse, to name a few.
What are the symptoms of whiplash?
Symptoms for whiplash usually develop within 24 hours of the accident. In rare cases, symptoms can take longer to appear. Symptoms of whiplash are:
- Neck pain
- Neck pain worse with movement
- Loss of range of motion or inability to move the neck
- Headaches
- Pain in the shoulders, arms and upper back
- Tingling and numbness in the arms
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
Other whiplash symptoms include:
- Blurred vision
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Irritability
- Inability to sleep
- Nausea
If you have been in any type of accident and experience any of the above symptoms, seek the advice of a qualified medical professional immediately.
Treating neck pain and whiplash?
It is important to remember to keep active after a whiplash injury.
After the first 24 hours, movement is vital.
Inactivity and foam cervical collars lead to the weakening of the cervical muscles. This can prolong your healing time.
It is highly recommended to seek professional medical care within 24 hours of your injury. Your doctor can make recommendations on bed rest and cervical collars based on your individual case.
Treatments for neck pain and whiplash include1:
- Gentle Chiropractic care
- Acupuncture
- Medical Massage Therapy
- Physical Therapy
- At-home exercises
- TENS unit therapy
- Ice or heat therapy
- Over-the-counter pain medication
- Prescription medication
If you are experiencing neck pain and live or work in the Stuart, FL area, feel free to schedule a consultation. Call 855-509-5400.
Chiropractic Treatment of Sprains and Strains
Chiropractic treatment of sprains and strains can help improve healing and provide pain relief.
Gentle chiropractic adjustments can help to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness while also promoting healing.
Chiropractic treatment offers a gentle, medication-free method for addressing sprains and strains. This approach can accelerate recovery and enhance overall performance. Strains result from muscles or tendons being overstretched or torn, whereas sprains happen when ligaments are stretched excessively or damaged. Frequently, strains arise from factors such as improper posture, repetitive actions, lifting heavy items, or sleeping in uncomfortable positions.
Medical massage therapy can alleviate muscle tightness, diminish discomfort and rigidity, and enhance circulation.
Acupuncture 1 has the ability to trigger the release of endorphins and serotonin, offering quick relief from pain. Research indicates that the pain alleviation achieved through acupuncture may be comparable to that of certain medications.
Sprains and strains are common injuries that fall into three categories: mild, moderate and severe.
What is a sprain?
A sprain is a stretch and/or tear of a ligament, the fibrous band of connective tissue that joins the end of one bone with another. Ligaments stabilize and support the body’s joints. The ligaments that help support, protect, and restrict excessive movement are torn, which is called a sprain.
What is a strain?
A strain is an injury of a muscle and/or tendon. Tendons are fibrous cords of tissue that attach muscles to bone. When these fibrous cords are stretched beyond their normal limits, they become strained.
What causes sprain/strains?
Causes for sprains are:
- Direct or Indirect trauma
Causes for strains are:
- Repetitive movements
- Overuse
- Over stretching
- Direct trauma
What are the symptoms of a sprain/strain?
Symptoms for a sprain are:
- Pain
- Bruising
- Inflammation
- Swelling
These symptoms vary in intensity depending on whether the sprain is mild, moderate or severe.
- Symptoms for a strain are:
Pain - Muscle weakness
- Muscle spasms
- Swelling
- Inflammation
- Cramping
- These symptoms vary in intensity depending on whether the strain is mild, moderate or severe.
Treatment for sprain/strains
Treatment for a sprain or strain is similar in the beginning with RICE:
- Rest
- Ice
- Compression
- Elevation
After the initial injury, a medical professional must assess the patient to determine whether additional therapy or treatment is necessary.
Prevention of sprains and strains
No one is immune to a sprain or strain injury but there are several things you can do to try and prevent or lessen the severity of the injury.
- Stretching
- Proper conditioning for the activity you are planning in participating in
- Properly fitted shoes; a knowledgeable sports shoes clerk or, better yet, a knowledgeable chiropractor can help you with the fit of your shoes.
- Proper warm-up before activity
If you are experiencing sprain or strain symptoms and wish to discuss your treatment options, please schedule an appointment with Advanced Wellness Solutions
