Effective Shoulder Pain Management and Treatment Options

At some point in your professional working life, you are more than likely to engaging in any activities that require the performance of repeated motions, such as work that involves reaching overhead or that regularly requires reaching beyond the normal range-of-motion of the joint.

What Causes Shoulder Pain

The structures in your shoulder joint are comprised of cartilage, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These structures work in conjunction with one another to shoulder impingement issues. Shoulder injuries can occur in many different professions. Some professional fields where shoulder overuse injuries commonly occur include:

• Mechanic
• Retail Salesperson
• Nursing
• Firefighter
• Administration Assistant
• Daycare Worker
• Baseball Player
• Lawncare Specialist
• Parenting
• Computer User/Office Worker

Work-related Chronic Shoulder Pain

If you are experiencing chronic shoulder pain, it is important to understand that work-related shoulder pain usually happens over a long period of time, instead of from a single direct cause, such as an accident. It can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as:

• Carrying to an extended period of time
• Repeatedly over-extending your normal reach
• Vibrations incurred from industrial equipment
• Improper hand/arm positioning
• Using improper lifting techniques

Pain management specialists have concluded that work environments which require sitting for long periods of time are known for being directly responsible for causing a weakening of the muscles in your neck and shoulders, thus creating the perfect set-up for chronic shoulder pain. The majority of cases of people seeking shoulder pain relief from shoulder impingement are reported by people that perform computer or desk work.

Learn How To Prevent Shoulder Pain

Two of the most effective ways to stay in one position for long periods of time.

Office chairs, and other devices designed to a reduction in the chances of developing a work-related injury.

Perhaps one of the easiest and most effective (and often overlooked) changes you can make is to ensure proper body positioning.

• Adjust your office chair to make sure both of your feet are situated on a stable, even surface.
• Tuck your elbows in close to your body and keep them well supported.
• Keep your arms and wrists held in a straight line(from your elbow to your hands) when performing typing/keyboarding tasks.
• Use an office chair that provides good support to your lower back region.
• Always remember to sit up straight.
• Strengthen your back muscles by performing exercises specifically designed to help you develop better posture.
• Arrange your computer equipment, and your office workstation, in such a way that prevents you from having tor or use your keyboard.
• Remember to help ease any strain on your muscles.
• Try using a telephone headset, especially if your job requires you to avoid straining your neck muscles.
• Always ask for assistance when having to reduce the opportunity for injury.

If you are still experiencing pain in your shoulder after employing these preventative suggestions, it may be time to seek shoulder pain treatment from a professional.

Who Can Treat Shoulder Pain?

Physical Therapists, Orthopedists, Chiropractors, and other professionals experienced in treating joint pain and injuries are excellent options for seeking shoulder pain relief not alleviated by at-home methods. The staff at the New York Dynamic Neuromuscular Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy Center can answer any questions you may have concerning a wide array of available treatments and therapies for chronic shoulder pain. Using the latest technological advancements in diagnostic equipment and successful treatment options, Dr. Kalika, and his highly trained staff can assist you in finding relief from work-related shoulder pain.