According to the National Institute of Health, shoulder pain is one of the most pervasive orthopedic issues individuals face today. Whether you’re an athlete pushing the limits in sports like baseball or swimming, a CrossFit enthusiast, or even someone tackling daily tasks like reaching into an overhead cabinet to grab a plate for dinner, the impact of shoulder pain is a shared experience. 

Why Are Shoulder Injuries Common?

The shoulders are one of the most frequently used joints in the body. As a ball-and-socket joint (like the hip), they move 360 degrees and are necessary for any activity we perform with our hands and arms. Because the ball of the upper arm bone (humerus) sits in a shallow socket, the shoulder joint is unstable and more prone to dislocation and other injuries. A large muscle group in the shoulder is responsible for our daily powerful arm movements (pushing, pulling, and lifting). Central to shoulder function, the rotator cuff supports the ball-and-socket joint and enables dynamic and overhead motions, although it is infamous for being susceptible to tears. 

The shoulder joint endures significant stress while engaging in activities like swimming, throwing a ball, or weight lifting. This added strain can lead to shoulder pain and may appear in conditions such as rotator cuff tears, labral tears, and tendonitis. Unfortunately, these issues can impact anyone regardless of their fitness levels or daily lifestyle.

Treating Shoulder Pain Can Be Touchy

While rest, ice, and heat are necessary first steps, when nagging pain persists, it’s best to talk to an expert before pushing forward and testing the limits. Certain exercises may exacerbate an injury. 

“It’s definitely not a one-size-fits-all approach,” said Dr. McKenzie. 

Depending on the situation, a physical therapist will develop a customized program that includes exercises and treatments to help the patient quickly and safely return to doing the things they enjoy. However, the path to recovery isn’t black and white.

“When shoulder pain is present, going straight into strengthening can irritate the shoulder,” said Dr. McKenzie. “Depending on the person, we may start with manual treatments, such as joint mobilization, cupping, and dry needling to reduce inflammation and decrease pain. Medical massage may also be beneficial.”

Getting to the Heart of the Matter of Shoulder Pain

To get to the heart of the matter, seeking expert support is crucial. Dr. Chris McKenzie literally wrote the book on how baseball pitchers can improve performance while keeping their arms strong and injury-free. Dr. McKenzie has dedicated his career to helping patients regain mobility and reduce pain. His extensive list of rehabbed players includes athletes from the L.A. Dodgers, Washington Nationals, and San Diego Padres. While not all shoulder injuries are related to baseball or pitching, most are related to overuse. 

Dr. McKenzie will host a workshop on shoulder pain in active individuals as part of his commitment to supporting active individuals. Scheduled for December 7th at 10 a.m. in Manayunk, PA, at 161 Leverington Avenue, Suite 1004, this free 90-minute workshop is designed to educate participants on managing and overcoming shoulder pain. It is open to only 12 participants; anyone interested in attending is encouraged to RSVP promptly.

In this interactive and hands-on workshop, you will walk away with extensive information, such as:

  • Proven techniques to alleviate chronic shoulder pain – Learn how to relieve discomfort and improve mobility. 
  • Strategies to regain control of your life and activities – Walk away with action steps to get back to the activities you love without pain holding you back. 
  • At this workshop, you will receive personalized advice tailored to your specific needs. Dr. McKenzie’s extensive knowledge ensures that the insights you gain are relevant to your lifestyle and individual needs, making you feel valued and understood. 

For more information or to RSVP for this event, click [here] or call our office at (267) 332-8102.