Shoulder pain | The Réseau

Shoulder’s anatomy

The shoulder is a solid, flexible and quite mobile articulation, the most mobile of the human body. It consists of three bones, the scapula, the clavicle and the humerus, as well as a muscles and joints system that units the arm to the torso and allows mobility in the three dimensions. Since it is in great demand in daily movements, the shoulder joint is vulnerable to traumas.

Shoulder pain causes

Tendinitis¹
Bursitis²
Capsulitis³, inflammation of the capsule joint
Rotator cuff injury
Referred neck pain due to a nerve root compression

Shoulder pain - Réseau des massothérapeutes

Tendinitis

A tendinitis is an acute or chronic tendon inflammation causing a more or less significant decrease in the joint mobility.

Symptoms

Local or diffused pain, increasing at night
Pain while achieving certain movements
Inflammation
Loss of strength in the affected region
Loss of joint amplitude

Causes

Shoulder overuse
Bad posture
Inadequate workstation
Abrupt movement
Lack of warm-up before an activity
Need for muscle rest

Bursitis

A bursitis is a chronic or acute joint inflammation of the serous bursa, in this case, of the shoulder. It results from a poorly treated tendinitis.

Symptoms

Similar to tendinitis
Reduced range of motion
More significant inflammation
Pressure is very painful

Therapeutic approach

The therapist is a muscle and joint specialist. His solid training allows him to efficiently act on several shoulder affections.

Following the interview, the therapist will use, in appropriate cases, a massage to warm up tissues, reduce contractures and increase blood flow; essential oils and rubefiants (products with a muscular effect) as well as kinesitherapy techniques to restore the shoulder’s full amplitude and mobility.

To complete the session, the therapist will also recommend rehabilitation exercices.

Home advice

In acute phase, apply ice for 15 to 20 minutes every hour for the first 48 hours.
To relax the muscles, apply a hot slated water compress for 20 minutes, 2 to 3 times a day.
Every morning and eveninig, rub your shoulder with a rubefiant (product with a muscular effect).
Avoid abrupt and repetive movements.
Properly warm-up your muscles before an activity.

The term therapist is used to signify a massage therapist, a kinesitherapist or an orthotherapist.

1.It is important to take note that your therapist cannot perform pathology diagnostics since only doctors have the competence to make a medical diagnosis. However, your therapist may act effectively to relieve your shoulder pain.
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