As the holiday season decks our halls with twinkling lights and the scent of pine, it's a time filled with anticipation for festive joy and heartfelt reunions.
The thought of carrying brightly wrapped gifts, embarking on long drives to visit family, or bustling in the kitchen preparing the perfect holiday feast should bring excitement, not discomfort.
However, for many grappling with shoulder pain, these cherished activities can become sources of dread, especially if scoliosis is part of their health picture.
The persistent ache and imbalance that scoliosis brings can cast a shadow over the festive spirit, leaving some to wonder if their curved spine is the culprit behind their shoulder pain.
You may be thinking "Can scoliosis cause shoulder pain?".
In this blog, you will delve into both shoulder pain and scoliosis, investigate the link between the two, and learn three proven ways to relieve shoulder pain.
Understanding Shoulder Pain and Scoliosis
Scoliosis, a condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine, doesn't just affect the back; it can have far-reaching implications, including in the shoulders.
This curvature can lead to uneven shoulder heights, causing muscular imbalances and strain.
The symptoms often range from a noticeable asymmetry in the shoulder line to a nagging pain that exacerbates with activities.
Understanding the connection between scoliosis and shoulder pain is crucial, as it opens doors to targeted treatment and pain relief.
Though scoliosis is most commonly identified during adolescence, it can also progress or become apparent in adulthood, especially in cases where it was mild or unnoticed during the younger years.
3 Ways Scoliosis Causes Shoulder Pain And How To Relieve It
Muscular Imbalance Due to Scoliosis
Scoliosis, characterized by a lateral curvature of the spine, often results in an uneven shoulder line, with one shoulder sitting higher than the other.
This asymmetry can lead to significant muscular imbalance around the shoulder girdle.
The muscles on one side of the body may become overstretched while those on the other side are overly contracted, leading to discomfort and pain in the shoulder region.
To address this, physical therapy exercises specifically designed to restore muscular balance are highly effective.
These exercises include isometric shoulder exercises, which involve contracting the shoulder muscles without visible movement of the arm, thereby strengthening the muscles without exacerbating any existing pain.
Additionally, targeted stretches that focus on elongating and relaxing the tightened shoulder muscles can also be beneficial. These exercises aim not just to relieve current discomfort but also to prevent future muscular imbalances.
Relieving Nerve Compression from Scoliosis
In instances where scoliosis leads to spinal deformity, there's a possibility of nerve compression, particularly affecting the nerves that extend to the shoulders.
This compression can manifest as pain, tingling, or a numbing sensation in the shoulder area, sometimes extending down the arm.
To alleviate these symptoms, gentle stretching and yoga can be particularly beneficial.
These activities help in releasing the tension around the nerve pathways, allowing for better nerve function.
Specific yoga poses or stretches like the doorway stretch, where one stands in a doorway and gently stretches the arms along the door frame, can open up the chest and shoulder area, providing relief.
For more targeted relief, a physical therapist might also recommend nerve glide exercises.
These are specialized movements that help to 'mobilize' the nerve, improving its ability to glide smoothly through surrounding tissues, thereby reducing pain and discomfort.
Combating Postural Strain From Scoliosis
The compensatory postures that often develop due to scoliosis can add significant strain to the muscles of the shoulder and neck.
Over time, these postural changes can lead to chronic pain and discomfort.
One effective approach to combating this is through posture awareness and corrective exercises.
Techniques and practices such as Pilates and the Alexander Technique, which emphasize proper alignment and balance, can be instrumental in correcting postural deviations.
These methods teach awareness of body positioning and encourage the maintenance of a neutral spine, thereby reducing undue stress on the shoulder muscles.
Additionally, making adjustments in daily activities, such as ensuring a properly set up workstation or using chairs with adequate lumbar support, can also help in maintaining a good posture, preventing shoulder and neck strain associated with scoliosis.
Pain In Your Shoulder at FYZICAL This Holiday Season
We at FYZICAL Therapy Waukesha, extend to you a special opportunity: a FREE Shoulder Pain Assessment
It’s our way of giving thanks by contributing to your health and well-being.
Allow us to help you get rid of that troublesome shoulder pain with personalized treatments and compassionate care.
Don’t let shoulder pain be an uninvited guest this Thanksgiving.
Claim your FREE Shoulder Pain Assessment today, and step into the holiday season with comfort, confidence, and the full embrace of your loved ones.
During this assessment, you can raise your problems, and a member of our expert team can give you personalized advice, and talk through treatment plans for you.
Call us now at 262-349-9297 or visit our clinic in Waukesha.
Seize your moment for pain-free celebrations - reach out to us now.
Happy Thanksgiving and Healthy Wishes,
Matt Gibbons and the FYZICAL Therapy Family
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