People think of chiropractic care for only back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Research strongly supports chiropractic treatment for these complaints. But what about chiropractic care for shoulder pain?
In 2010 and 2014, The U.K. government published landmark studies that reviewed previously published research on various forms of treatment for many conditions. These reviews noted there is favorable scientific evidence for chiropractic treatment with regard to shoulder-related conditions. These include shoulder girdle pain/dysfunction, rotator cuff pain, and adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder).
When chiropractors approach treatment for patients with shoulder pain, care typically focuses on restoring range of motion. Various manipulative and mobilization techniques are directed at the three joints of the shoulder. These joints include the glenohumeral, acromioclavicular joint, and scapulothoracic joint. Chiropractic treatment may also include training focused on restoring motion, strength, and stability to the muscles and soft tissues surrounding the shoulder region. A host of physical therapy modalities are also utilized as adjunctive procedures in many chiropractic settings at various stages of healing following a shoulder injury. The goal of care is to return patients to their norm of everyday function.
Shoulder Pain and Chiropractic Treatment
But what about shoulder pain AFTER surgery? Can chiropractic still help? A 2018 study found that post-surgical patients who received mid-back manipulation experienced significant increases in shoulder movement. They also increased subacromial space measurements in neutral and external rotation. The authors cited other studies that reported similar improvements in shoulder mobility as well as shoulder blade kinematics.
Given the research support of manual therapies directed at not only the shoulder but also the neck, upper, and mid-back spinal regions, chiropractic care for patients with shoulder pain is simply a must!
