Risk Factors for Shoulder Injuries

 

Of all the joints in the body, the shoulder is the most intricate. Shoulder injuries are quite common because of the complexity and range of motion that the shoulder has. Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic and Wellness Center in Nitro, WV has treatments and therapies that can help to get your shoulder on the road to healing.

Car accidents

A car accident can cause a severe shoulder injury. The seatbelt can cause the collarbone to be fractured. The collarbone and the shoulder share a connection and the injury of one will pain the other. Another common injury to the shoulder caused by a car accident is a torn rotator cuff. The rotator cuff is four muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. It is an important part of the stability of this complex joint. A tear is painful if it is touched or if you try to use your shoulder. 

Aging

Aging is a major risk factor for shoulder injuries. The more often you repeat a movement, the more likely you are to injure it and your shoulders get a lot of repetitive use. Rotator cuff injuries are more common as you age and, of course, the wear and tear that your shoulder gets increases your chance of developing osteoarthritis and bone spurs. Frozen shoulder is also more common as you age and this can severely limit the amount of movement in your shoulder. 

Sports injuries

There is no doubt that shoulders are vulnerable to sports injuries. With contact sports like football, landing on your shoulder can do painful damage. Rotator cuff injuries are of particular risk to athletes who do repetitive motions, like swimmers, tennis players, and baseball pitchers. Shoulders are also at risk of injuries in sports like wrestling and volleyball. 

Poor posture

Poor posture can lead to shoulder impingement. Impingement is when the muscles or tendons in your shoulder rub against the bursa, which causes it to become inflamed and results in bursitis. If you are slumping or hunching your shoulders, this is a risk factor for shoulder injuries. 

Many chiropractic treatments can benefit the pain you are feeling in your shoulder. Massage can help the muscles to relax, ultrasound can help with injury healing and therapeutic exercise will help get your shoulder back to 100%. These are just some options your chiropractor will discuss with you. 

To receive treatment for shoulder injuries in Nitro, WV, you can count on Dr. McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic and Wellness Center. To make an appointment for an evaluation, give us a call at (304) 776-1520 or use the form on our website.