Shoulder
The shoulder is one of the most active parts of the body. We raise our arms, reach for things, push away from the ground, pick ourselves up, carry things, and so much more utilizing the mobility of our shoulders and arms, and the strength of our backs. Our shoulders are a part of the entire working musculoskeletal system, but can often be at risk for injury and pain due to the intricacies and delicate position in that system. At In Motion O.C., we help our clients understand why they feel pain in their shoulders, how the shoulder should be used, and how it can help them get the most out of their lives. As we learn to recognize what shoulder pain feels like and where it comes from, it’s best to start with the basics of shoulder anatomy to visualize it.
Anatomy of the Shoulder Includes
- Bones
- Joints
- Ligaments
- Nerves
- Arteries and Veins
- Bursa
Like everything in the body, the shoulder’s structure is a scaffolding made of bones called the shoulder girdle. These bones are the shoulder blade (scapula), the clavicle (collar bone), the manubrium (breastbone), and the humerus (upper arm) that function together to create four separate joints. These joints work together in a coordinated fashion to allow for a great amount of motion at the shoulder joint. However, with more mobility there is increased risk for instability and injury.
The shoulder complex consists of a multitude of muscles that allow for us to reach, lift, carry, push, pull and all the other motions and abilities we are able to perform on a daily basis. Each of these muscles is responsible for a specific motion and function that we are able to perform. In addition, these muscles overlap each other to help stabilize and support these complex joints.
Muscles hold the scapula in place such as the deltoid; there are no real bone connections here, but a strong set of ligaments surround these joints; these ligaments are located around the head of the humerus connecting to a groove in the scapula. The ligaments create a casing around this delicate joint in the scapula that is also connected through with tendons from the biceps which hook underneath the humerus and around the scapula. With all the moving parts, we can see why there could be injuries due to tangling or pinching of these tendons.
The rotator cuff complex is a specific group of muscles that often become injured. The rotator cuff consists of four separate muscles that work together to hold the “ball within the socket” allowing for the stability of the joint. Each of these four muscles also have their own specific motions to assist in our ability to move the shoulder in different directions. An injury to this complex can greatly limit one’s ability to perform any activity with their arm.
Common Types of Shoulder Pain Include
Any pain related to the shoulder can often be reduced or managed by performing exercises and stretches dedicated to this area over time. It’s often necessary to see a specialist for shoulder pain if it becomes unbearable or interrupts your daily activities. Physical therapy is a great way to learn how to regain your mobility and to strengthen your muscles so that you can be sure to avoid injury.
In addition to these exercises, you should rest the area, apply cold compresses and take some over the counter anti-inflammatory medication. Depending on the type of pain, how long it persists, and to what degree you feel this pain in the shoulder, it may be necessary to see a specialist that can reduce inflammation with anti-inflammatory injections.
Call In Motion O.C. today to start your customized physical therapy and personal training plan at 949.861.8600.
