Are You Suffering from Shoulder Stiffness as a Result of a Car Accident? Chiropractic Care Can Be Beneficial!

Jun 5

Head, shoulders, knees and toes, knees and toes, knees and toes..." doesn't that remind you of something? There's a strong chance you recall that charming little tune from your childhood. And while you're singing it, you'll notice that "shoulders" comes in second. It has to be significant, right? You guessed correctly if you said "yes." If you've had a shoulder injury or have shoulder stiffness due to an auto accident, you're probably in a lot of pain and need help from a chiropractor doctor.

The shoulders are a vital aspect of the upper-body system, and you rely on them for practically all of your daily activities. So, if you've been in a vehicle accident and need treatment with shoulder pain or injury, let us explain how a chiropractor like Peak Potential Family Chiropractic - Houston Heights may help!

4 Common Types of Shoulder Injuries

Following are the four most prevalent types of shoulder injuries due to a car collision. But, first, let's talk about what causes them and how they can damage our health.

Shoulder Dislocation
Labral Tears
Shoulder AC Joint Separation
Fractures

What Is Shoulder Dislocation and How Does It Happen?

Shoulder dislocations occur when the shoulder ball is forced out of its socket, usually due to trauma such as a car accident, sports, or falls. Shoulder dislocations are typical seat-belt injuries since while the seat belt is doing its job to secure you in place upon impact, your body will still be propelled forward, and the subsequent friction can cause injury.

If your shoulder is dislocated, it must be repositioned before it can begin to recover. This might happen on its own or with the assistance of a physician. In addition, you'll need to enroll in a rehabilitation program once the shoulder is back in place to ensure that the shoulder muscles are strengthened and help prevent further dislocation. A rehabilitation program, such as the one offered at Peak Potential Family Chiropractic - Houston Heights, works to strengthen weak muscles while stretching tight ones, allowing the patient to feel better and avoid further damage.

To place the shoulder in a way that reduces the danger of subsequent damage, the shoulder blade muscles must be in appropriate alignment. Therefore, our doctors employ kinesiology taping techniques to assist muscles that require additional support and stability, particularly in the case of shoulder dislocations.

What Are Labral Tears and Why Do They Occur?

A labral tear is a rip in the cartilage-like tissue that helps to support the shoulder joint in the shoulder. Trauma, such as a vehicle accident, sports injury, or a tumble, can cause this tissue to tear. Overuse during one's lifespan can even cause it to tear (think baseball players, swimmers, etc.). Labral rips are another common type of seat belt injury when the body is jerked forward by the impact while still being confined to the seat by the seat belt.

Exercises to strengthen the rotator cuff, shoulder muscles, and shoulder blade muscles can build stability and prevent additional injury.

What Are Fractures and How Do They Happen?

Fractures to the shoulder are another prevalent type of shoulder injury sustained in car accidents. These can happen due to an accident involving another vehicle or a seat belt. Shoulder fractures can be classified into three categories:

Humerus fractures – the humerus is the long bone that connects the elbow to the shoulder.

Clavicle fracture - the clavicle, or collarbone, is the long thin bone that begins at the base of the neck and continues out to the shoulder – which is often positioned immediately below where a seat belt crosses over – and is perhaps the most common fracture suffered in auto accidents.

Scapula fracture - the scapula is a flat triangular bone in the upper back that serves as the main link between the chest and the arm. These fractures are less common. However, they can happen in car accidents.

What is the Role of Chiropractic Care in Shoulder Injuries?

If you have a shoulder injury or are experiencing shoulder discomfort due to an auto accident, you should consult a chiropractor right once. Why? Because chiropractors are the most experienced in dealing with car accident injuries. They can collaborate with you to find a natural, holistic solution to your pain. You may be surprised to learn that only 6.2 percent of all shoulder problems necessitate surgery. Even though we all know how painful and debilitating shoulder problems can be, don't assume you need surgery to get better!

At Peak Potential Family Chiropractic - Houston Heights, we will thoroughly examine your shoulder, testing the range of motion, muscle strength, and reflexes. We will also assess for any changes in sensation or circulation. Depending on our examination results, we may order X-rays, an MRI, or other diagnostic tests to determine the exact nature and extent of your shoulder injury. Call us now!

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