Do's And Don'ts For Shoulder Pain
I’ve been thinking about shoulder pain lately as my own shoulders have been put under a lot of stress. Not only I teach Animal Flow and do weights at the gym, but I’m constantly running after my kids who are going through a phase where they want me to lift them up and carry them around.
Yes, my shoulders are not impressed and have taken the brunt of all these movements, so thought I’d focus on how to look after your own shoulders and what to do if you’re struggling with pain in this area.
Anatomy
The shoulder is a ball and socket joint, the socket is shallow when compared to the hip joint (which can make it more prone to dislocations).
The rotator cuff is made up of 4 muscles that help to keep the arm (humerus) in the socket (scapula). It’s also attached to the breast bone through the collar bone via the acromioclavicular (A/C) joint.
When to see someone if the shoulder doesn’t feel quite right;
Struggling to move the arm or frozen shoulder.
Weakness in the arm
Radiating pain or tingling down the arm
Pain in your shoulder at night, moving arm above the head, or behind the back
Unable to do certain movements, like getting dressed
What to do if injured;
Find a position of ease
Rest, stop doing the activity that’s causing you pain
Consult GP/ pharmacy regarding pain relief
See a physio/ rehab specialist
How to avoid shoulder pain;
Do exercises that work on isometrics (exercises that stabilise the shoulder) and stability for the rotator cuff for deltoids and trapezius muscles
Avoid extended periods of overhead activity (keeping your arm up)
Plan your activity to suit your ability (and don’t over do it)
How we can help;
We take a detailed history of your condition
Examine the shoulder to identify what tissues may be involved
Test the strength of the muscles around the shoulder and upper back
In most cases, we can offer hands on treatment to assist in the process
At Move With Eze, we help you build strength and create strategies that tackle your issues to reach your goals.
Click here to start easing your aches and pain now.