Shoulder Tendinopathy

Shoulder tendinopathy

Shoulder Tendinopathy and Osteopathy: Understanding and Treatment

What is Shoulder Tendinopathy?

Shoulder tendinopathy is a common condition that affects the tendons in the shoulder. Tendons are tough bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones. When tendons in the shoulder become irritated or damaged, it can result in pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder. Shoulder tendinopathy can occur in any of the tendons in the shoulder, but it most commonly affects the rotator cuff tendons.

Symptoms of Shoulder Tendinopathy

The symptoms of shoulder tendinopathy can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but common symptoms include:

  • Pain: Pain in the shoulder that worsens with movement or at night
  • Stiffness: Stiffness in the shoulder that limits range of motion
  • Weakened muscles: Weakness in the shoulder muscles
  • Swelling: Swelling and tenderness in the shoulder area

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek treatment from a healthcare professional to prevent further damage to the shoulder.

Treatment Options for Shoulder Tendinopathy

There are several treatment options available for shoulder tendinopathy, including:

  • Rest and Ice: Resting the shoulder and applying ice to reduce inflammation
  • Physical Therapy: Physical therapy exercises to strengthen the shoulder muscles and improve range of motion
  • Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation
  • Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain in the shoulder

How Osteopathy Can Help

Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that focuses on the musculoskeletal system, including the bones, muscles, and joints. Osteopaths are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, including shoulder tendinopathy. Osteopathic treatment for shoulder tendinopathy may include:

  • Manual Therapy: Osteopaths use hands-on techniques such as massage, stretching, and manipulation to improve the mobility of the shoulder joint and reduce pain
  • Exercise Prescription: Osteopaths may prescribe specific exercises to strengthen the shoulder muscles and improve range of motion
  • Postural Correction: Osteopaths can assess and correct any postural imbalances that may be contributing to the shoulder pain

Many patients with shoulder tendinopathy have found relief from their symptoms through osteopathic treatment. Osteopathy can help address the underlying causes of shoulder tendinopathy and improve overall shoulder function.

Preventing Shoulder Tendinopathy

While shoulder tendinopathy can be a challenging condition to treat, there are steps you can take to prevent it from occurring in the first place. Some tips for preventing shoulder tendinopathy include:

  • Proper Technique: When participating in sports or activities that involve repetitive shoulder movements, make sure to use proper technique to avoid putting excessive strain on the shoulder tendons
  • Gradual Progression: Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your exercise routine to prevent overuse injuries
  • Warm-Up: Always warm up before exercising to prepare your muscles and tendons for activity
  • Strength Training: Incorporate strength training exercises into your routine to help support the shoulder muscles and tendons

Shoulder tendinopathy can be a painful and debilitating condition, but with the right treatment and preventative measures, you can manage your symptoms and improve your shoulder function. Osteopathy is a popular treatment option for shoulder tendinopathy, providing relief from pain and improving overall shoulder mobility. If you are struggling with shoulder pain, consider seeking help from an osteopath who can develop a personalised treatment plan to address your specific needs.

Our Osteopaths regularly help patients with shoulder tendinopathy, this condition is one of the more common presentations in our clinic in Runaway Bay Marina. If you would like to know more about how we can help feel free to call our clinic on 07 5613 3505.

Remember, early intervention is key to preventing long-term complications from shoulder tendinopathy. Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back from doing the things you love – seek help from a healthcare professional today.

Book with and Osteopath

Frozen Shoulder Treatment

Treatment of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a common condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. It typically develops slowly over time and can be a debilitating condition if left untreated. In this post, we will explore the various treatment options available for frozen shoulder and how Osteopathy can help in managing the symptoms.

Frozen shoulder is generally self limiting, with resolution of symptoms within 1.5 to 3 years. Treatment and an exercise program may help decreased this time as well as prevent the other shoulder from developing the same condition.

Causes and Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder occurs when the capsule of connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed and thickened. This leads to the formation of adhesions, which restrict the movement of the shoulder joint. The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not fully understood, but it is believed to be associated with factors such as age, gender, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes and thyroid disorders.

The main symptoms of frozen shoulder include:

  • Pain: Persistent pain in the shoulder joint, especially with movement.
  • Stiffness: Severe limitation in the range of motion of the shoulder, making daily activities difficult.
  • Weakness: Muscle weakness in the affected shoulder due to lack of use.

Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder

There are several treatment options available for frozen shoulder, depending on the severity of the condition. These include:

1. Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of frozen shoulder. A physiotherapist can design a tailored exercise program to help improve the range of motion in the shoulder joint and reduce pain. These exercises may include stretching and strengthening exercises, as well as manual therapy techniques to mobilise the shoulder joint.

2. Medications

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder joint. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to provide temporary relief from pain and improve mobility in the shoulder.

3. Osteopathy

Osteopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on the manual manipulation of the musculoskeletal system to improve overall health and wellbeing. Osteopathic treatment for frozen shoulder may involve gentle manipulation of the shoulder joint to help improve range of motion and reduce pain and stiffness.

Research has shown that osteopathy may be an effective treatment option for frozen shoulder, with studies reporting improvements in pain relief and functional outcomes after osteopathic treatment. Osteopathic care focuses on restoring balance and alignment in the body, which can help to alleviate the symptoms of frozen shoulder and improve overall joint health.

We regularly see patients with frozen shoulder an assist them to get back to what they love doing, as well as improving their quality of life.

4. Surgery

In severe cases of frozen shoulder where conservative treatments have not been effective, surgery may be recommended. Surgical procedures for frozen shoulder include arthroscopic capsular release, where the tight capsule surrounding the shoulder joint is cut to improve mobility, or manipulation under anaesthesia, where the shoulder is manipulated to break up adhesions and improve range of motion.

How Osteopathy Can Help

Osteopathy can be an valuable treatment option for frozen shoulder due to its hands-on approach to healthcare. Osteopathic treatment for frozen shoulder may involve:

  • Joint mobilisation: Gentle manipulation of the shoulder joint to improve range of motion and reduce stiffness.
  • Soft tissue techniques: Massage and stretching techniques to help relieve pain and improve muscle function.
  • Postural correction: Assessment and correction of posture to help prevent further strain on the shoulder joint.

Osteopathic treatment for frozen shoulder is tailored to the individual needs of the patient, taking into account their specific symptoms and health history. Osteopaths work to address the underlying causes of frozen shoulder, such as poor posture or muscle imbalances, to help restore normal function in the shoulder joint.

Frozen shoulder is a common condition that can cause pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. Treatment options for frozen shoulder include physiotherapy, medications, surgery, and Osteopathy. Osteopathic treatment for frozen shoulder can help to improve range of motion, reduce pain, and restore normal function in the shoulder joint. If you are suffering from frozen shoulder, consider seeking Osteopathic care to help manage your symptoms and improve your overall joint health.

Book Now to Talk to one of our Osteopaths

5 Ways Osteopathy Can Help With Frozen Shoulder

5 Ways Osteopathy Can Help with Frozen Shoulder

Dealing with a frozen shoulder can be incredibly frustrating and debilitating. The pain and stiffness can limit your range of motion and affect your quality of life. However, there is hope! Osteopathy is a reliable treatment option that can help alleviate the symptoms of frozen shoulder and help you regain mobility. Here are five ways osteopathy can help:

1. Improving Joint Mobility

Osteopathy focuses on treating the body as a whole, rather than just the symptoms. With frozen shoulder, the joint capsule becomes tight and inflamed, restricting movement. Osteopathic techniques such as joint mobilisation and stretching can help loosen up the joint, increase blood flow, and improve mobility. By releasing tension and restoring function to the joint, osteopathy can help alleviate the pain and stiffness associated with frozen shoulder.

2. Relieving Muscle Tension

When you have a frozen shoulder, the muscles surrounding the joint can become tense and inflamed as they try to compensate for the limited range of motion. Osteopathic treatments such as soft tissue massage and trigger point therapy can help relax these muscles, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation. By releasing tension in the muscles, osteopathy can help reduce pain and improve function in the shoulder.

3. Improving Posture and Alignment

Poor posture and alignment can contribute to the development of frozen shoulder and exacerbate symptoms. Osteopathy can help address underlying structural issues that may be contributing to your condition. By working on improving posture, alignment, and muscle balance, osteopathy can help prevent future shoulder issues and promote overall musculoskeletal health.

4. Enhancing Nerve Function

Frozen shoulder can put pressure on the nerves in the shoulder area, leading to symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and weakness. Osteopathic techniques such as nerve mobilisation can help release tension on the nerves and improve their function. By addressing nerve-related issues, osteopathy can help alleviate additional symptoms associated with frozen shoulder and promote better overall function in the shoulder.

5. Providing Lifestyle and Exercise Advice

Living with a frozen shoulder can be challenging, but osteopathy can offer more than just hands-on treatment. Osteopaths can provide advice on lifestyle modifications, ergonomic changes, and specific exercises to help support your recovery and prevent future issues. By empowering you with the knowledge and tools to manage your condition, osteopathy can help you take control of your health and achieve long-term results.

The Osteopaths at Eclipse health and Osteopathy see many patients with frozen shoulder and other shoulder pain conditions and have had success in treating these conditions.

Frozen shoulder can be a frustrating and painful condition, but osteopathy offers a holistic approach to treatment. By addressing the underlying causes of your symptoms and providing hands-on therapy, osteopathy can help you regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve function in your shoulder. If you are struggling with frozen shoulder, consider incorporating osteopathy into your treatment plan for a comprehensive and personalized approach to healing.

Book Now

Treatment for Bursitis in Shoulder- An Osteopathic Perspective

Bursitis Shoulder

Understanding Bursitis in the Shoulder

Bursitis is a common condition that affects the small, fluid-filled sacs called bursae that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints. When these bursae become inflamed, it can cause pain and discomfort, especially in the shoulder area. Bursitis in the shoulder can be caused by repetitive movements, overuse of the joint, or sudden impact injuries.

If you are experiencing pain, tenderness, swelling, or limited range of motion in your shoulder, it is important to seek medical attention to determine if you have bursitis. Your healthcare provider may recommend various treatment options, including rest, ice, physical therapy, and in some cases, osteopathic treatment.

How Osteopathy Can Help with Bursitis in the Shoulder

Osteopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on the body’s structure and function to promote healing and alleviate pain. Osteopathic treatment for bursitis in the shoulder may involve gentle manipulation of the affected area to improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and restore normal joint function. An Osteopath will also look at the biomechanics of adjoining areas such as the thoracic (upper back), neck and upper limb (arm), this will allow any factors that are contributing to the bursitis to be addressed and reduced. Such as poor posture changing the biomechanics of the shoulder joint and leading to increased pressure on the bursa.

Osteopathic techniques, such as soft tissue massage, stretching, and joint mobilization, can help to release tension in the muscles and promote healing in the affected bursae. By addressing the underlying structural imbalances in the body, osteopathy can help to alleviate pain and improve mobility in the shoulder joint.

Benefits of Osteopathic Treatment for Bursitis Shoulder

There are several benefits to seeking osteopathic treatment for bursitis in the shoulder. Some of these benefits include:

  • Pain Relief: Osteopathic techniques can help to reduce pain and discomfort in the shoulder joint.
  • Improved Range of Motion: By restoring normal joint function, osteopathy can help to improve flexibility and range of motion in the shoulder.
  • Reduced Inflammation: Osteopathic treatment can help to reduce inflammation in the affected bursae, promoting healing and reducing swelling.
  • Prevention of Recurrence: Osteopathy can address the underlying structural imbalances that may be contributing to bursitis, helping to prevent future flare-ups.

What to Expect During an Osteopathic Treatment Session

During an osteopathic treatment session for bursitis in the shoulder, your osteopath will conduct a thorough assessment of your condition, including a physical examination and discussion of your symptoms. Based on this assessment, your osteopath will develop a customized treatment plan to address your specific needs and goals.

Osteopathic treatment for bursitis in the shoulder may involve a combination of hands-on techniques, such as massage, stretching, and joint manipulation, as well as lifestyle and exercise recommendations to support healing and prevent future injuries. Your osteopath will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs and preferences.

If you are suffering from bursitis in the shoulder, osteopathy may be an effective treatment option to help alleviate pain, improve mobility, and promote healing. By addressing the underlying structural imbalances in the body and restoring normal joint function, osteopathy can provide long-lasting relief from shoulder pain and discomfort.

It is important to seek professional medical advice and guidance if you suspect you have bursitis in the shoulder. Your healthcare provider can help to diagnose your condition and recommend appropriate treatment options, including osteopathic care.

Remember, early detection and treatment of bursitis can help to prevent more serious complications and promote faster healing. Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back – explore the benefits of osteopathy for bursitis shoulder today.

 

Book With an Osteopath

Causes of Shoulder Pain in Females

Shoulder tendinopathy

Main Causes of Shoulder Pain in Women

Shoulder pain is a common complaint among women, with various factors contributing to its occurrence. Understanding the main causes of shoulder pain can help women seek appropriate treatment and prevent further complications. We will be exploring the main causes of shoulder pain in women from an osteopathic perspective.

Overuse and Repetitive Strain Injuries

One of the primary causes of shoulder pain in women is overuse and repetitive strain injuries. Women are more likely to engage in activities that require repetitive movements such as lifting heavy objects, typing on a computer, or playing sports that involve overhead movements. Over time, these repetitive movements can lead to inflammation and irritation of the tendons and muscles in the shoulder, resulting in pain and discomfort.

Studies have shown that women are at a higher risk of developing overuse injuries in the shoulder due to their anatomical differences compared to men. For example, women tend to have smaller and weaker muscles in the shoulder girdle, making them more susceptible to injuries.

Postural Imbalances

Poor posture is another common cause of shoulder pain in women. Many women spend long hours sitting at desks or hunched over computers, leading to rounded shoulders and a curved upper back. This unnatural posture puts excessive strain on the muscles and ligaments in the shoulder, leading to pain and discomfort.

Osteopathic treatment can help correct postural imbalances and alleviate shoulder pain by addressing underlying mechanical dysfunctions in the spine and shoulder girdle. By focusing on restoring proper alignment and function, osteopaths can help women improve their posture and reduce the risk of developing shoulder pain.

Rotator Cuff Injuries

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint and help stabilize and move the shoulder. Rotator cuff injuries are a common cause of shoulder pain in women, especially in those who participate in sports or activities that involve repetitive overhead movements. Injuries to the rotator cuff can range from mild inflammation to complete tears, resulting in pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder.

Research has shown that women are more likely to suffer from rotator cuff injuries compared to men, possibly due to hormonal factors that affect the strength and integrity of the tendons in the shoulder. Osteopathic treatment can help improve the strength and flexibility of the rotator cuff muscles, reducing the risk of injury and alleviating shoulder pain.

Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. Women are more likely to develop frozen shoulder than men, with risk factors including age, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes and thyroid disorders. Frozen shoulder can cause severe pain and limited range of motion in the shoulder, making daily activities difficult to perform.

Osteopathic treatment for frozen shoulder typically involves gentle mobilization techniques to restore normal joint function and decrease pain and stiffness. By addressing the underlying restrictions in the shoulder joint and surrounding tissues, osteopaths can help women regain mobility and improve their quality of life.

Stress and Emotional Factors

Stress and emotional factors can also contribute to shoulder pain in women. Research has shown that psychological stress can manifest as physical symptoms, including muscle tension and pain in the shoulder and neck area. Women who experience high levels of stress or emotional distress may be more prone to developing shoulder pain as a result.

Osteopathic treatment can help women manage stress and emotional factors that contribute to shoulder pain by promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension. By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of shoulder pain, osteopaths can help women achieve long-lasting relief and improved overall well-being.

Shoulder pain is a common problem among women, with various factors contributing to its occurrence. From overuse and repetitive strain injuries to postural imbalances and rotator cuff injuries, understanding the main causes of shoulder pain is essential for effective treatment and prevention. Osteopathic treatment offers a holistic approach to managing shoulder pain by addressing the underlying mechanical dysfunctions and promoting proper alignment and function in the shoulder girdle. 

The Osteopaths at Eclipse health and Osteopathy see many women with shoulder pain and have had success treating their pain and getting them back to what they love doing.

 

Book Now

5 Causes of Shoulder Pain and How Osteopathy can Help.

5 Causes of Shoulder Pain and How osteopathy can Help.

5 Causes of Shoulder Pain and How Osteopathy Can Help

If you have ever experienced shoulder pain, you know how debilitating it can be. Simple tasks, such as lifting items, driving, or even combing your hair, can become extremely challenging. Understanding the causes behind shoulder pain and seeking appropriate treatment, such as osteopathy, can help alleviate your discomfort and restore your shoulder’s functionality.

The osteopaths at Eclipse health and Osteopathy have extensive experience in treating patients with shoulder pain and have found that osteopathic treatment to beneficial to the majority of patients. They employ a range of techniques and customize each treatment to the individual. 

1. Rotator Cuff Injuries

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, providing stability and allowing for a wide range of motions. Overuse, traumatic injury, or degeneration can cause tears or strains in the rotator cuff, resulting in shoulder pain. Osteopathy can assist in reducing inflammation, improving blood flow, and promoting natural healing by using manual techniques like soft tissue manipulation and joint mobilizations.

2. Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that limits the shoulder’s range of motion due to inflammation and thickening of the shoulder capsule. This condition presents itself with severe pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the arm. Osteopathic treatment aims to restore mobility and decrease pain by gently stretching and mobilizing the shoulder joint, aiding in loosening the thickened capsule and promoting tissue healing.

3. Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff become irritated and inflamed due to repetitive overhead activities or poor posture. This condition can cause severe shoulder pain, weakness, and limited range of motion. Osteopathic treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, improving biomechanics, and strengthening the surrounding muscles through manual therapy techniques and guided exercise programs.

4. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a common degenerative joint disease that affects the shoulder joint, resulting in pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. Osteopaths employ a holistic approach by incorporating manual therapy techniques, lifestyle modifications, and exercises to manage pain, improve joint function, and promote overall well-being. Joint mobilizations and soft tissue techniques can help relieve pain and improve joint mobility in osteoarthritic shoulders.

5. Tendonitis

Tendonitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon, often caused by overuse, repetitive activities, or sports-related injuries. In the case of shoulder tendonitis, the tendons that connect the muscles of the rotator cuff to the upper arm bone become inflamed, leading to pain and restricted movement. Osteopathic treatment encourages the healing process by employing a range of techniques, including soft tissue manipulation, ultrasound therapy, and gentle exercises tailored to the individual.

In addition to these common causes, shoulder pain may also result from bursitis, fractures, dislocation, or referred pain from other areas. Consulting an osteopath is crucial in determining the specific cause of your shoulder pain and developing an appropriate treatment plan.

How Can Osteopathy Help?

Osteopathy is a non-invasive and drug-free approach to treating various musculoskeletal conditions, including shoulder pain. Osteopaths are highly trained healthcare professionals who assess your overall body mechanics, aiming to identify and address the root cause of your shoulder pain.

The osteopathic treatment for shoulder pain involves a comprehensive examination, which entails assessing your posture, mobility, muscle strength, and joint range of motion. Following the examination, the osteopath develops an individualized treatment plan, which may comprise a combination of manual therapy techniques, exercises, lifestyle modifications, and education.

Manual Therapy Techniques

Osteopaths utilize a range of manual therapy techniques to alleviate shoulder pain and restore normal mobility. These may include:

  • Soft tissue manipulation: Applying gentle pressure and stretching to the affected soft tissues to reduce tension, improve blood circulation, and promote tissue healing.
  • Joint mobilizations: Using precise movements to restore natural joint mechanics, reduce pain, and enhance shoulder mobility.
  • Massage: Relieving muscle tension and promoting relaxation to alleviate shoulder pain.

Exercises and Rehabilitation

In addition to manual therapy, the osteopath may prescribe specific exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the shoulder joint. These exercises aim to improve stability, flexibility, and range of motion, ultimately promoting long-term recovery and preventing future issues. The osteopath will guide and monitor your progress, adjusting the exercises as needed.

Lifestyle Modifications

Osteopaths provide valuable advice on ergonomics, postural modifications, and workplace adjustments to minimize stress on the shoulder joint and prevent pain recurrence. They may also suggest modifications to your daily activities to avoid exacerbating your condition and facilitate healing.

The Bottom Line

If you are experiencing shoulder pain, it is essential to seek professional help to diagnose and address the underlying cause. Osteopathy offers a holistic approach to shoulder pain management, focusing on identifying the root cause while providing specialized manual therapy, personalized exercises, and lifestyle recommendations. By working alongside an osteopath, you can effectively regain shoulder functionality, alleviate pain, and improve your overall well-being.

Book Now