Written by Louise Harman, Certified Massage Therapist
"What causes shoulder pain?" you may ask!?
Shoulder pain is common complaint I see in the practice and after having a week full of shoulder complaints, I thought I should probably write an article on it!
At any one time, around 25% of adults will be suffering with shoulder discomfort. It is often due to overuse; such as repetitive motions from, say, painting a room or lifting heavy objects; but it can also be from injuries, such as a rotator cuff (muscle) strains or tears, dislocations, or even something like bursitis, a swelling of the fluid sacs inside your shoulder. It can also originate from other sources, such arthritis, and even rarer sources like infections. It can even serve as a warning sign for more elusive health issues like heart problems. It is therefore recommended to consult a healthcare professional if shoulder pain arises without an apparent cause, as it may signal something significant happening elsewhere in the body.
The shoulder is an extraordinary part of our anatomy, with a remarkable range of movement. No other joint in the body moves as much as the shoulder. However, this flexibility comes at the cost of stability, making it prone to injury.
Basic shoulder mechanics:
Ball & Socket: The shoulder is classed a ball and socket joint allowing for lots of movement. Unlike the hip joint, (also a ball and socket) the shoulder socket is flatter like a plate, allowing for more movement than the hip but, but making it prone to instability.
- Rotator Cuff: These muscles are the unsung hero of shoulder stability, ensuring smooth and secure movements.
- Ligaments and Capsules: The “cellotape” that connects bones and facilitates movement, serving as theshoulder's dynamic support system.
- Labrum: A cartilage ring that keeps the shoulder joint snugly in place, preventing unwanted dislocations.
Scapula: The scapula, or shoulder blade, seamlessly moves as you lift your arm. It relies on a delicate balance of muscles to maintain equilibrium.
- Power Muscles: Big muscles like the pectorals and deltoids are the powerhouse muscles responsible for lifting and pushing, driving the shoulder's strength.
- Foundation Muscles: These muscles ensure proper posture and help prevent pain, serving as the shoulder's structural foundation
Maintaining a healthy shoulder involves balancing flexibility and stability. Regular exercises that focus on strengthening and stretching the shoulder can go a long way in preventing pain and discomfort. As a practitioner and sportsperson, I truly understand the importance of having a balanced training programme to ensure thefunctioning of healthy shoulder movement.
Needless to say, deciphering the cause of shoulder pain can be a bit of a puzzle, as it may stem from muscle or joint imbalances, poor posture, or other underlying issues. This is particularly true for older adults or individuals who spend extended periods sitting.
Fortunately, manual therapy including massage therapy and targeted exercises often provide effective relief, helping individuals regain comfort and mobility. Addressing the root cause, rather than merely alleviating symptoms, is key to long-term relief.
While the shoulder's design offers remarkable movement, it can also lead to pain if something isn't quite right. Persistent or severe shoulder pain should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional. If you have unresolved shoulder pain, please don’t hesitate to contact us - we're here to help.
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