Also in this library there are a further 85 3D animated videos covering   other conditions / complaints under the same headings. To view the Videos Library, click in the top right hand corner. 

Also available are 32 3D animated educational videos for various Pain, injuries and conditions, they can be found under the listing “Types of Pain” Section.  

For pain management and Shoulder Pain at Central Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Clinic, we use the latest Low Level Lasers which accelerate the recovery and healing process, leading to a significant reduction in pain inflammation. A 5 star rating has been awarded to Low Level Laser Therapy; our laser section can be found listed under “Pain Relief “

Shoulder Pain

Levator scapula syndrome

What is it?

Levator scapula syndrome refers to pain arising from the levator scapula muscle where it attaches to the top of the shoulder blade in the upper back.

How does it happen?

Levator scapula syndrome results from long periods of overstretching of the levator scapulae muscle. This can occur fom bad posture such as sitting over a computer with rounded shoulders. This poor posture stretches the levator scapulae muscle and when performed over a long period of time, can result in inflammation and pain within the muscle.

How does it feel?

Levator scapula syndrome produces pain which is felt in the upper back and neck. This is most often felt where the muscle attaches to the top of the shoulder blade. However, it may also be felt in the neck, over the top of the shoulder or between the shoulder blades.

What should you do?

If you have or suspect you have levator scapula syndrome, you should seek the advice and assistance of a Chiropractor or Physiotherapist.

What shouldn’t you do?

If you have or suspect you have levator scapula syndrome, you shouldn’t ignore the problem.  However, unless the cause of the problem is identified and addressed the pain will continue to return and may get progressively worse.

Could there be any long-term effects?

Levator scapula syndrome does not produce any long-term effects, as long as it accurately diagnosed and appropriately treated.

Management

The advice and assistance of a Chiropractor or a Physiotherapist is important in the treatment of levator scapula syndrome, they can  confirm your diagnosis. Health Professionals such as a Chiropractor or Physiotherapist will be able to design an appropriate course of treatment  to reduce your pain and reduce the chance of it returning. Treatment will include stretching and strengthening exercises, and  exercises designed to improve your posture.

Also in this library there are a further 85 3D animated videos covering   other conditions / complaints under the same headings. To view the Videos Library, click in the top right hand corner. 

Also available are 32 3D animated educational videos for various Pain, injuries and conditions, they can be found under the listing “Types of Pain” Section.  

For pain management and Shoulder Pain at Central Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Clinic, we use the latest Low Level Lasers which accelerate the recovery and healing process, leading to a significant reduction in pain inflammation. A 5 star rating has been awarded to Low Level Laser Therapy; our laser section can be found listed under “Pain Relief “

Shoulder Pain

Biceps tendinopathy

What is it?

Biceps tendinopathy refers to inflammation within the tendon which connects the biceps muscle on the front of the upper arm with the shoulder blade.

How does it happen?

Biceps tendinopathy results from the overuse of the biceps tendon. The biceps tendon passes through a narrow channel in the arm bone before reaching its insertion onto the shoulder blade. In this bony channel the tendon is very susceptible to damage. Overuse or repetitive use of the biceps muscle and, therefore, the biceps tendon can cause friction of the tendon against the edges of the bony channel leading to microscopic tears within the substance of the tendon. Following inflammatory reaction is the response in repairing these microscopic tears. This inflammation within the tendon is called tendinopathy.

How does it feel?

Biceps tendinopathy presents as pain felt in the top of the upper arm. This pain typically develops gradually. Initially, the tendon may only be painful following shoulder activity.  Sometime it may be felt first thing in the morning, the day after vigorous activity, there will also be pain which may lead to stiffness or tightness in the shoulder. Normally, these initial signs of biceps tendinopathy are ignored as they disappear quickly with use of the arm. However, by continuing precipitating activity, the tendinopathy progresses and the pain within the tendon becomes more frequent and intense. Pain occurs during any shoulder activity vigorous or not. In the earlier stages, this pain during shoulder activity may initially disappear, only to return later on.

What should you do?

Biceps tendinopathy generally does not get better on its own if the cause is not addressed and you continue the shoulder activity. If you have or suspect you have biceps tendinopathy, you should consult your Chiropractor or Physiotherapist at their Sports injury clinic. Treatment may begin at home, initially this should consist of an application of the ice pack shortly after shoulder activity, the ice pack should never be placed directly on to the skin, always put a thin fabric on the injured area, the ice pack then on top for 15-20 minutes only, this should be done once an hour, up to 8 times per day, the more you do, the better the results.

What should you not do?

Biceps tendinopathy do not ignore the problem. The pain may dissipate as the shoulder activity is undertaken; however, engaging in shoulder activity will interfere with the healing process and may cause further significant damage. If this occurs, the recovery may be prolonged and it may take a number of weeks or months to return the shoulder to painless activity.

Could there be any long-term effects?

Biceps tendinopathy does not produce any long-term effects as long as it is properly diagnosed and appropriate treatment administered. If not, it can lead to prolonged pain in the upper arm and prolong periods of pain resulting from shoulder activity.

Management

A Chiropractor or Physiotherapist is important in the treatment of biceps tendinopathy. Initially they diagnose the problem and its severity. This may require the use of imaging techniques such as ultrasound or MRI Scan. From this a Chiropractor or Physiotherapist will be able to determine an appropriate treatment plan.

For Example

This may involve shoulder activity modification, soft tissue treatment such as massage and stretching, and the progression through a series of specific strengthening exercises. Please view our Cold or Low Level Laser Section listed under “Types of Pain” for the management of Biceps tendinopathy this modality has a five star rating for pain relief and the acceleration of the healing process of Biceps tendinopathy

Also in this library there are a further 85 3D animated videos covering   other conditions / complaints under the same headings. To view the Videos Library, click in the top right hand corner. 

Also available are 32 3D animated educational videos for various Pain, injuries and conditions, they can be found under the listing “Types of Pain” Section.  

For pain management and Shoulder Pain at Central Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Clinic, we use the latest Low Level Lasers which accelerate the recovery and healing process, leading to a significant reduction in pain inflammation. A 5 star rating has been awarded to Low Level Laser Therapy; our laser section can be found listed under “Pain Relief “

Shoulder Pain

Calcific tendonitis of the rotator cuff

Fibrosis and pain on the inside of the shoulder blade – commonly makes a grinding sound on movement and is very hard to pinpoint. There may also be aching or a burning feeling as well as pain radiating  into the neck and shoulder.

This condition is usually related to overuse and posture problems. It can cause restrictions of  the rib joints where they articulate with the spine and restrictions of the spinal joints themselves. Treatment is usually by Micro current, Trigger point treatment and manipulation of the associated joints. ART and or tool assisted treatment of the tissues to break down the adhesion’s.

Rotator cuff muscle pathology – Pain is commonly in the front of the shoulder and may go into the arm.

The rotator cuff muscles can become easily stressed when asked to brace suddenly in a fall or car accident when holding the steering wheel at time of impact. Pain in muscles can occur from Trigger Points. Fibrotic changes in the muscle from a tear or micro tears can adhere and cause the muscle to shorten, the muscles then may feel restricted and painful, the peripheral nerves may also become trapped.

Also in this library there are a further 85 3D animated videos covering   other conditions / complaints under the same headings. To view the Videos Library, click in the top right hand corner. 

Also available are 32 3D animated educational videos for various Pain, injuries and conditions, they can be found under the listing “Types of Pain” Section.  

For pain management and Shoulder Pain at Central Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Clinic, we use the latest Low Level Lasers which accelerate the recovery and healing process, leading to a significant reduction in pain inflammation. A 5 star rating has been awarded to Low Level Laser Therapy; our laser section can be found listed under”Pain Relief “

Adhesive Capsulitis (frozen shoulder)

What is it?

Adhesive Capsulitis or “Frozen Shoulder” is a painful condition occurring with inflammation and scarring of the gleno-humeral or shoulder joint. Essentially the shoulder joint becomes increasingly immobile as the condition develops.

How does it happen?

There is no known reason why adhesive capsulitis develops, however it does seem to occur in the middle-aged or older age bracket. At some point the shoulder joint becomes irritated and local inflammation occurs within and around the joint capsule, this is often referred to as capsulitis. If present long enough, small adhesions or scar tissue will develop between the synovial layers of the joint. These adhesions obviously relate to the condition being termed Adhesive Capsulitis.

How does it feel?

The two most obvious things to notice are pain and a restriction in shoulder movement in all directions. Interestingly, the pain may vary from a mild ache to excruciating pain deep in the shoulder joint, the upper arm or the neck. Pain may be experienced throughout the day with any movement of the arm and even whilst resting in bed at night. The loss of shoulder movement may not be detected early on as we tend to use our arms below shoulder level for most of our daily activities. However as the condition progresses, the ability to move the arm becomes progressively harder and harder, until even movements below shoulder height become painful too.   Many patients also feel pain at night time due to extra loading of  joint. This can be particularly noticeable when lying on your side as this squeezes any inflammation or scarring that is already there.

What should you do?

If you have or suspect you have adhesive capsulitis you should seek the assistance of a Chiropractor or Physiotherapist as soon as possible.

What shouldn’t you do?

If you have or suspect you have adhesive capsulitis PLEASE DON’T IGNORE THE PROBLEM! The longer you leave the condition without treatment, the worse it may become. This may make your pain and restriction in movement worse and prolong your recovery.

Could there be any long-term effects?

Adhesive capsulitis usually gets better by without treatment, however, this typically takes 18 months to 2 years and. If you seek professional advice early on, then this can significantly accelerate the recovery time. On the bright side, once recovery does occur the long-term outlook is good.  In some cases there may be some other underlying condition affecting the shoulder, such as a tear of the rotator cuff.

Management

If the diagnosis of adhesive capsulitis is made, the sports medicine professional will be able to provide you with an appropriate treatment and home exercise program. This will most commonly be aimed at reducing your pain and improving your shoulder range of motion. It may involve the use of anti-inflammatory medications, electrotherapy, Cold or Low Level Laser Therapy, Mobilising Treatments, range of motion exercises, plus additional stretching and strengthening. If progress is slow or these measures do not provide any relief, the Chiropractor or Physiotherapist may refer you to a consultant and an injection into the shoulder may be appropriate.

This is performed by a radiologist. It involves injecting fluid into the shoulder to stretch along the inside of the Joint (hydro-dilatation) and stretch the restricted lining of the joint. It is followed up by chiropractic or physiotherapy to ensure that the extra range of motion gained by the procedure is maintained. Also the use of Cold or Low Level Laser Therapy provides significant pain relief.

Also in this library there are a further 85 3D animated videos covering   other conditions / complaints under the same headings. To view the Videos Library, click in the top right hand corner. 

Also available are 32 3D animated educational videos for various Pain, injuries and conditions, they can be found under the listing “Types of Pain” Section.  

For pain management and Shoulder Pain at Central Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Clinic, we use the latest Low Level Lasers which accelerate the recovery and healing process, leading to a significant reduction in pain inflammation. A 5 star rating has been awarded to Low Level Laser Therapy, our laser section can be found listed under”Pain

Rotator cuff strain

What is it?

The rotator cuff refers to a group of four muscles which run from the shoulder blade to the top of the arm bone. They act to both support and move the shoulder joint. A rotator cuff strain refers to a tear to one or more of these muscles.

How does it happen?

A rotator cuff muscle may be strained when it is forcibly contracted or overstretched. This can occur in any activity which requires movement of the shoulder.

How does it feel?

A tear of a rotator cuff muscle is usually felt as sudden pain or a sharp pulling felt in the shoulder area. In minor tears you may be able to continue participating with minimal hindrance. However, as the muscle cools down following participation the pain may gradually worsen as bleeding and swelling around the injured muscle takes place. In more severe tears, pain may be exaggerated such that you are unable to continue participating immediately following injury. In these cases the shoulder may also feel weak.

What should you do?

If you have or suspect you have a rotator cuff strain, it is advised you limit the use of the arm and begin initial treatment. The first few hours after he injury are crucial in the treatment of a rotator cuff strain. This is the time when bleeding and swelling around the injured muscle is active. Although swelling is a necessary step in healing process, too much can delay healing and cause further tissue damage. To control the amount of swelling and limit the degree of damage, the injured rotator cuff muscle should be rested and iced. This involves ceasing to participate in sporting activities and limiting the use of the injured arm. Icing involves applying ice to the point of the injury for 15 minutes every hour with a ice pack. Then seek medical advice within 24 hours.

What shouldn’t you do?

In the first few days following rotator cuff strain you shouldn’t undertake activities which increase blood flow to the injured muscle. These include hot showers, shoulder stretching, heat rubs, massage, the consumption of alcohol and excessive use of the arm. These can prolong muscle bleeding and exaggerate swelling resulting in further pain and an extended recovery.

Could there be any long-term effects?

Most rotator cuff strains heal without complication within weeks. However, a proportion of injuries can result in longer-term effects, depending on the severity of the injury and the extent of damage, should a rotator cuff muscle becomes completely torn surgery may be required to repair the muscle. To recover from surgery and enable the muscle to fully heal, a prolonged recovery may be required. Similarly, in minor tears recovery may be prolonged if the tear is not appropriately managed. This may result in a tight, weak rotator cuff muscle which is prone to re injury with return to participation. This weakened muscle may also predispose you to other shoulder injuries such as rotator cuff tendinopathy.

Management

The assistance of a Chiropractor or Physiotherapist is important in the treatment of a rotator cuff strain. Initially, they can assist in determining the exact area and extent of tissue damage. This may require the use of imaging techniques to aid in the diagnosis. This will aid you to determine how long the injury is expected to take to heal can be provided and an appropriate management plan developed. The latter may involve activity modification, the use of soft tissue treatment such as massage and stretching, and the progression through a series of specific strengthening exercises.  

Also in this library there are a further 85 3D animated videos covering   other conditions / complaints under the same headings. To view the Videos Library, click in the top right hand corner. 

Also available are 32 3D animated educational videos for various Pain, injuries and conditions, they can be found under the listing “Types of Pain” Section.  

For pain management and Shoulder Pain at Central Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Clinic, we use the latest Low Level Lasers which accelerate the recovery and healing process, leading to a significant reduction in pain inflammation. A 5 star rating has been awarded to Low Level Laser Therapy, our laser section can be found listed under ”Pain Relief”, please also view our  ”Low level Laser Testimonial Video”. 

Rupture of the long head of biceps

What is it?

Rupture of the long head of biceps refers to a complete break within the tendon which connects the biceps muscle on the front of the upper arm with the shoulder blade.

How does it happen?

A rupture of the long head of biceps can occur when the biceps muscle is forcibly contracted. Biceps tendon transmits forces produced by the muscle to the shoulder blade thus producing or controlling movement at the shoulder joint. Forcible contraction of the muscle can overstress the biceps tendon resulting in it breaking or rupturing. This most commonly occurs in people of middle-aged especially if they have a history of biceps tendinopathy. The biceps tendon passes through a narrow channel in the arm bone before reaching its insertion onto the shoulder blade. In this bony channel the tendon is very susceptible to damage. Overuse or repetitive use of the biceps muscle and, therefore, the biceps tendon can cause friction of the tendon against the edges of the bony channel leading to microscopic tears within the substance of the tendon. Following inflammatory reaction is the response in repairing these microscopic tears. This inflammation within the tendon is called tendinopathy.

How does it feel?

A complete rupture of the long head of biceps produces pain felt in the top of the upper arm. This is often associated with a sensation of something suddenly snapping or tearing. The pain may settle quickly. There may be contracture of the muscle in the lower part of the upper arm resulting in a prominent lump. This lump may become more apparent if you contract or tighten your biceps muscle.

What should you do?

A rupture of the long head of biceps does not get better on its own. Therefore, if you have or suspect this injury, it is advised you seek the assistance of a sports medicine professional as soon as possible (i.e. on the same day as the injury). In the meantime you can begin initial treatment to limit the amount of bleeding and swelling within and around the torn ends of the tendon. This should consist of rest and the application of ice to the shoulder. Ice should be applied to the injured site for 15–20 minutes every 1–2 hours. Ideally, this should be applied using crushed ice wrapped in a moist cloth or towel.

What should you not do?

Any activities which increase blood flow to the injured site and, therefore, bleeding and swelling to the area should be avoided. These include hot showers, heat rubs, massage, the consumption of alcohol and excessive activity.

Could there be any long-term effects?

A rupture of the long head of biceps does not heal by itself. As a result it may be repaired surgically. The decision to perform surgery will depend on the effects of the injury on the functioning of your arm, and your individual sport and situation. If your arm functioning is not impaired, the tendon may not be repaired. In these cases you should be able to return to participation following a short period of rehabilitation.

Management

 A Chiropractor or Physiotherapist is important in the treatment of a rupture of the long head of biceps. Initially they diagnose the problem and establish its severity. This may require the use of imaging techniques such as ultrasound or MRI Scan. From this, a Chiropractor or Physiotherapist will be able to determine an appropriate treatment plan.

For Example

Should surgery be considered?

Or a program of stretching and strengthening exercises.

Cold or Low Level Laser Therapy is listed under “Types of Pain” this modality has a five star rating for pain relief and the acceleration of the healing process for a partial rupture of the long head of biceps

Also in this library there are a further 85 3D animated videos covering   other conditions / complaints under the same headings. To view the Videos Library, click in the top right hand corner. 

Also available are 32 3D animated educational videos for various Pain, injuries and conditions, they can be found under the listing “Types of Pain” Section.  

For pain management and Shoulder Pain at Central Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Clinic, we use the latest Low Level Lasers which accelerate the recovery and healing process, leading to a significant reduction in pain inflammation. A 5 star rating has been awarded to Low Level Laser Therapy, our laser section can be found listed under ”Pain Relief”, please also view our  ”Low level Laser Testimonial Video”. 

Labral Tears ( Gleniod Labrum Tears )

Labral tears are injuries to the labrum surrounding the shoulder socket that can occur from acute trauma or repetitive shoulder motion. Examples of acute trauma include falling on an outstretched arm; a direct blow to the shoulder; a sudden violent pull, as when trying to lift a heavy object or a sudden overhead reach.

Tears can be located either above (superior) or below (inferior) the middle of the glenoid socket. A SLAP lesion (superior labrum, anterior [front] to posterior [back]) is a tear of the labrum above the middle of the socket that may also involve the biceps tendon. A tear of the labrum below the middle of the glenoid socket involving the inferior glenohumeral ligament is called a Bankart lesion. Tears of the labrum often occur with other shoulder injuries, such as a dislocated shoulder (full or partial dislocation).

The symptoms of a tear in the shoulder socket rim, which are similar to those of other shoulder injuries, include pain, usually with overhead activities; catching, locking, popping, or grinding; occasional night pain, or pain with daily activities; a sense of instability in the shoulder; decreased range of motion; or loss of strength.

Treatment

Anti-inflammatory medication and rest to relieve symptoms may be prescribed initially. Rehabilitation exercises to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles also may be recommended. If these conservative measures are insufficient, arthroscopic surgery may be prescribed.

During arthroscopic surgery, the doctor will examine the rim and the biceps tendon. If the injury is confined to the rim itself, without involving the tendon, the shoulder is still stable. The surgeon will remove the torn flap and correct any other associated problems. If the tear extends into the biceps tendon, or if the tendon is detached, the shoulder is unstable. The surgeon will need to repair and reattach the tendon using absorbable tacks, wires, or sutures.

Tears below the middle of the socket also are associated with shoulder instability. The surgeon will reattach the ligament and tighten the shoulder socket by folding over and “pleating” the tissues.

Rehabilitation

After surgery, a sling is used for three to four weeks. Your Chiropractor or Physiotherapist also will prescribe gentle, passive, and pain-free range-of-motion exercises. When the sling is removed, motion and flexibility exercises can be started. Athletes usually can begin doing sport-specific exercises six weeks after surgery, although it will be three to four months before the shoulder is fully healed.

Cold or low level laser therapy has a five star rating in the healing process and pain relief, thus reducing convalescing periods

Also in this library there are a further 85 3D animated videos covering   other conditions / complaints under the same headings. To view the Videos Library, click in the top right hand corner. 

Also available are 32 3D animated educational videos for various Pain, injuries and conditions, they can be found under the listing”Types of Pain” Section.  

For the management of Shoulder Pain at Central Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Clinic, we use the latest Low Level Lasers which accelerate the recovery and healing process, leading to a significant reduction in pain inflammation. A 5 star rating has been awarded to Low Level Laser Therapy, our laser section can be found listed under ”Pain Relief”, please also view our  ”Low level Laser Testimonial Video”. 

Labral Tears ( Gleniod Labrum Tears )

Labral tears are injuries to the labrum surrounding the shoulder socket that can occur from acute trauma or repetitive shoulder motion. Examples of acute trauma include falling on an outstretched arm; a direct blow to the shoulder; a sudden violent pull, as when trying to lift a heavy object or a sudden overhead reach.

Tears can be located either above (superior) or below (inferior) the middle of the glenoid socket. A SLAP lesion (superior labrum, anterior [front] to posterior [back]) is a tear of the labrum above the middle of the socket that may also involve the biceps tendon. A tear of the labrum below the middle of the glenoid socket involving the inferior glenohumeral ligament is called a Bankart lesion. Tears of the labrum often occur with other shoulder injuries, such as a dislocated shoulder (full or partial dislocation).

The symptoms of a tear in the shoulder socket rim, which are similar to those of other shoulder injuries, include pain, usually with overhead activities; catching, locking, popping, or grinding; occasional night pain, or pain with daily activities; a sense of instability in the shoulder; decreased range of motion; or loss of strength.

Treatment

Anti-inflammatory medication and rest to relieve symptoms may be prescribed initially. Rehabilitation exercises to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles also may be recommended. If these conservative measures are insufficient, arthroscopic surgery may be prescribed.

During arthroscopic surgery, the doctor will examine the rim and the biceps tendon. If the injury is confined to the rim itself, without involving the tendon, the shoulder is still stable. The surgeon will remove the torn flap and correct any other associated problems. If the tear extends into the biceps tendon, or if the tendon is detached, the shoulder is unstable. The surgeon will need to repair and reattach the tendon using absorbable tacks, wires, or sutures.

Tears below the middle of the socket also are associated with shoulder instability. The surgeon will reattach the ligament and tighten the shoulder socket by folding over and “pleating” the tissues.

Rehabilitation

After surgery, a sling is used for three to four weeks. Your Chiropractor or Physiotherapist also will prescribe gentle, passive, and pain-free range-of-motion exercises. When the sling is removed, motion and flexibility exercises can be started. Athletes usually can begin doing sport-specific exercises six weeks after surgery, although it will be three to four months before the shoulder is fully healed.

Cold or low level laser therapy has a five star rating in the healing process and pain relief, thus reducing convalescing periods

Also available are 32 3D animated educational videos for various Pain, injuries and conditions, they can be found under the listing ”Types of Pain” Section.  

For the management of Shoulder Pain at Central Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Clinic, we use the latest Low Level Lasers which accelerate the recovery and healing process, leading to a significant reduction in pain inflammation. A 5 star rating has been awarded to Low Level Laser Therapy, our laser section can be found listed under ”Pain Relief”, please also view our  ”Low level Laser Testimonial Video”. 

Rupture of the long head of biceps

What is it?

Rupture of the long head of biceps refers to a complete break within the tendon which connects the biceps muscle on the front of the upper arm with the shoulder blade.

How does it happen?

A rupture of the long head of biceps can occur when the biceps muscle is forcibly contracted. Biceps tendon transmits forces produced by the muscle to the shoulder blade thus producing or controlling movement at the shoulder joint. Forcible contraction of the muscle can overstress the biceps tendon resulting in it breaking or rupturing. This most commonly occurs in people of middle-aged especially if they have a history of biceps tendinopathy. The biceps tendon passes through a narrow channel in the arm bone before reaching its insertion onto the shoulder blade. In this bony channel the tendon is very susceptible to damage. Overuse or repetitive use of the biceps muscle and, therefore, the biceps tendon can cause friction of the tendon against the edges of the bony channel leading to microscopic tears within the substance of the tendon. Following inflammatory reaction is the response in repairing these microscopic tears. This inflammation within the tendon is called tendinopathy.

How does it feel?

A complete rupture of the long head of biceps produces pain felt in the top of the upper arm. This is often associated with a sensation of something suddenly snapping or tearing. The pain may settle quickly. There may be contracture of the muscle in the lower part of the upper arm resulting in a prominent lump. This lump may become more apparent if you contract or tighten your biceps muscle.

What should you do?

A rupture of the long head of biceps does not get better on its own. Therefore, if you have or suspect this injury, it is advised you seek the assistance of a sports medicine professional as soon as possible (i.e. on the same day as the injury). In the meantime you can begin initial treatment to limit the amount of bleeding and swelling within and around the torn ends of the tendon. This should consist of rest and the application of ice to the shoulder. Ice should be applied to the injured site for 15–20 minutes every 1–2 hours. Ideally, this should be applied using crushed ice wrapped in a moist cloth or towel.

What should you not do?

Any activities which increase blood flow to the injured site and, therefore, bleeding and swelling to the area should be avoided. These include hot showers, heat rubs, massage, the consumption of alcohol and excessive activity.

Could there be any long-term effects?

A rupture of the long head of biceps does not heal by itself. As a result it may be repaired surgically. The decision to perform surgery will depend on the effects of the injury on the functioning of your arm, and your individual sport and situation. If your arm functioning is not impaired, the tendon may not be repaired. In these cases you should be able to return to participation following a short period of rehabilitation.

Management

 A Chiropractor or Physiotherapist is important in the treatment of a rupture of the long head of biceps. Initially they diagnose the problem and establish its severity. This may require the use of imaging techniques such as ultrasound or MRI Scan. From this, a Chiropractor or Physiotherapist will be able to determine an appropriate treatment plan.

For Example

Should surgery be considered?

Or a program of stretching and strengthening exercises.

Cold or Low Level Laser Therapy is listed under “Types of Pain” this modality has a five star rating for pain relief and the acceleration of the healing process for a partial rupture of the long head of biceps

 Also in this library there are a further 85 3D animated videos covering other conditions / complaints under the same headings. To view the Videos Library, click in the top right hand corner.  

Also available are 32 3D animated educational videos  for various Pain, injuries and conditions, they can be found under the listing ”Types of Pain” Section.  

For the management of Shoulder Pain at Central Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Clinic, we use the latest Low Level Lasers which accelerate the recovery and healing process, leading to a significant reduction in pain inflammation. A 5 star rating has been awarded to Low Level Laser Therapy, our laser section can be found listed under ”Pain Relief”, please also view our  ”Low level Laser Testimonial Video”. 

Adhesive Capsulitis (frozen shoulder)

What is it?

Adhesive Capsulitis or “Frozen Shoulder” is a painful condition occurring with inflammation and scarring of the gleno-humeral or shoulder joint. Essentially the shoulder joint becomes increasingly immobile as the condition develops.

How does it happen?

There is no known reason why adhesive capsulitis develops, however it does seem to occur in the middle-aged or older age bracket. At some point the shoulder joint becomes irritated and local inflammation occurs within and around the joint capsule, this is often referred to as capsulitis. If present long enough, small adhesions or scar tissue will develop between the synovial layers of the joint. These adhesions obviously relate to the condition being termed Adhesive Capsulitis.

How does it feel?

The two most obvious things to notice are pain and a restriction in shoulder movement in all directions. Interestingly, the pain may vary from a mild ache to excruciating pain deep in the shoulder joint, the upper arm or the neck. Pain may be experienced throughout the day with any movement of the arm and even whilst resting in bed at night. The loss of shoulder movement may not be detected early on as we tend to use our arms below shoulder level for most of our daily activities. However as the condition progresses, the ability to move the arm becomes progressively harder and harder, until even movements below shoulder height become painful too.   Many patients also feel pain at night time due to extra loading of  joint. This can be particularly noticeable when lying on your side as this squeezes any inflammation or scarring that is already there.

What should you do?

If you have or suspect you have adhesive capsulitis you should seek the assistance of a Chiropractor or Physiotherapist as soon as possible.

What shouldn’t you do?

If you have or suspect you have adhesive capsulitis PLEASE DON’T IGNORE THE PROBLEM! The longer you leave the condition without treatment, the worse it may become. This may make your pain and restriction in movement worse and prolong your recovery.

Could there be any long-term effects?

Adhesive capsulitis usually gets better by without treatment, however, this typically takes 18 months to 2 years and. If you seek professional advice early on, then this can significantly accelerate the recovery time. On the bright side, once recovery does occur the long-term outlook is good.  In some cases there may be some other underlying condition affecting the shoulder, such as a tear of the rotator cuff.

Management

If the diagnosis of adhesive capsulitis is made, the sports medicine professional will be able to provide you with an appropriate treatment and home exercise program. This will most commonly be aimed at reducing your pain and improving your shoulder range of motion. It may involve the use of anti-inflammatory medications, electrotherapy, Cold or Low Level Laser Therapy, Mobilising Treatments, range of motion exercises, plus additional stretching and strengthening. If progress is slow or these measures do not provide any relief, the Chiropractor or Physiotherapist may refer you to a consultant and an injection into the shoulder may be appropriate.

This is performed by a radiologist. It involves injecting fluid into the shoulder to stretch along the inside of the Joint (hydro-dilatation) and stretch the restricted lining of the joint. It is followed up by chiropractic or physiotherapy to ensure that the extra range of motion gained by the procedure is maintained. Also the use of Cold or Low Level Laser Therapy provides significant pain relief.