SHOULDER PAIN? Understanding Its Function Will Help Your Rehab!

Your shoulder is a remarkable joint that allows for a wide range of movements, providing the freedom to throw, lift, and perform other athletic endeavors. While this complex joint is also prone to injuries and discomfort, we shouldn't be afraid to use it. Understanding how your shoulders work is the first step to keeping them healthy. Let's dive deep into the intricacies of shoulder health and explore three crucial components: the rotator cuff muscles, the labrum, and scapular stabilization. Each aspect relies on the other for optimal movement.

The Rotator Cuff Muscles:

The rotator cuff consists of four key muscles: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. These muscles work together to support and stabilize the shoulder through movement. The supraspinatus initiates shoulder abduction, while the infraspinatus and teres minor contribute to external rotation. The subscapularis aids in internal rotation. When these muscles work together, they harmoniously provide smooth and controlled shoulder movements. It is crucial that no single muscle is overcompensated or restricted during lifts or exercises. All four muscles should move freely to accomplish their common goal of pain-free movement.

The Labrum:

Deep within the shoulder joint lies the labrum, a crucial structure that provides stability and cushioning. It is a cartilage ring that surrounds the shoulder joint socket, providing stability by deepening the socket and acting as a cushion for the humeral head. The labrum also serves as an attachment point for the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles. However, it is vulnerable to tears, especially during traumatic events or repetitive overhead activities. Labral tears can lead to pain, instability, and a limited range of motion in the shoulder. Even so, pain and instability can often be resolved with rehab to enhance proper shoulder mechanics.

Scapular Stabilization:

The scapula, or shoulder blade, plays a crucial role in proper shoulder function. It provides a stable base for the shoulder and allows the muscles to provide their smooth movement during various arm and shoulder motions. Scapular stabilization exercises strengthen the muscles that control scapular movement, such as the rhomboids, trapezius, and serratus anterior. By improving scapular stability and movement coordination, these exercises help reduce the risk of rotator cuff and labrum injuries and promotes improved shoulder mechanics.

Understanding the rotator cuff and its associated structures is essential for maintaining shoulder health and preventing injuries. The labrum acts as a cushion and attachment point for the rotator cuff tendons, but it is susceptible to tears. This injury risk is greatly reduced with proper rotator cuff movement and scapular stabilization. Scapular stabilization exercises are crucial for promoting proper shoulder mechanics and reducing the risk of rotator cuff injuries. A stable scapula means that the rotator cuff muscles can have better synergy together without compensation. Without this solid base, the rotator cuff muscles would have to compensate on their own, leading to a higher risk of injury and restriction.

At Function First Sports Chiropractic, we support the health and function of your shoulder by removing restrictions in the rotator cuff muscles with myofascial release, stabilizing your scapula with rehab exercises, and ensuring proper movement of all surrounding joints with chiropractic adjustments. These treatments protect the labrum and allow for optimal shoulder performance in daily activities and sports.