Effective Ways to Relieve External Rotation Pain in the Shoulder

Feb 7, 2024

Introduction

Are you experiencing external rotation pain in your shoulder? You're not alone. Many individuals, especially athletes and individuals involved in repetitive shoulder movements, deal with this type of discomfort. Thankfully, IAOM US, a trusted provider in the field of Health & Medical, Chiropractors, and Physical Therapy, can offer you effective solutions to manage and alleviate your shoulder pain. Our skilled professionals and tailored techniques can make a significant difference in your shoulder's well-being.

The Relationship Between External Rotation and Shoulder Pain

External rotation of the shoulder refers to the movement where the humerus bone rotates outwards. While this movement is necessary for daily activities and sports, excessive and repetitive external rotation can lead to pain and discomfort in the shoulder joint. This discomfort may arise due to overuse, poor shoulder mechanics, or underlying conditions such as rotator cuff injuries or shoulder impingement syndrome.

Understanding the Causes of External Rotation Pain

To effectively address external rotation pain in the shoulder, it's crucial to understand its underlying causes. Some common causes include:

  • Repetitive motions: Engaging in activities that require repetitive external rotation of the shoulder joint, such as throwing a ball or serving in tennis, can strain the muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder.
  • Poor posture: Consistently maintaining poor posture can contribute to imbalances and muscle weakness, leading to increased pressure on the shoulder joint during rotation.
  • Rotator cuff injuries: Tearing or inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons can result in pain during external rotation movements. Poor healing or repetitive micro-traumas can worsen the condition.
  • Shoulder impingement syndrome: This condition occurs when the space between the acromion (part of the shoulder blade) and the rotator cuff tendons narrows, causing irritation and pain during external rotation.

Effective Methods to Relieve External Rotation Pain

1. Seek Skilled Chiropractic Care

Chiropractors specializing in shoulder pain can provide targeted treatments to address your external rotation discomfort. They will conduct a thorough assessment to identify any misalignments or imbalances in your shoulder joint. Chiropractic adjustments can help restore proper alignment, improve range of motion, and alleviate pain.

2. Engage in Physical Therapy

Physical therapy plays a pivotal role in rehabilitating and strengthening the shoulder muscles and joint. Your physical therapist will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific condition and goals. This may include exercises to enhance muscle strength, flexibility, and stability, as well as techniques to improve shoulder mechanics and posture.

3. Apply Cold Therapy

Cold therapy can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the shoulder. Applying an ice pack to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can provide soothing relief.

4. Heat Therapy

Heat therapy can help relax tense muscles and promote blood circulation. Apply a warm compress or take a warm shower to help alleviate muscle stiffness and discomfort in the shoulder area.

5. Incorporate Rest and Modification of Activities

Resting the shoulder and avoiding activities that worsen the pain is crucial for the healing process. Modify your daily activities to minimize repetitive external rotation movements until your shoulder recovers.

6. Practice Corrective Exercises

Your chiropractor or physical therapist may prescribe specific exercises to correct muscle imbalances and improve shoulder stability. These exercises can aid in strengthening the rotator cuff muscles and improving overall shoulder function.

Conclusion

If you're struggling with external rotation pain in your shoulder, seeking the help of skilled professionals from IAOM US can make a significant difference in your journey to recovery. Through a combination of chiropractic care, physical therapy, and targeted treatments, you can alleviate pain, improve shoulder mechanics, and regain your mobility. Don't let shoulder pain hinder your daily life any longer - take proactive steps towards a pain-free future by reaching out to IAOM US today.

external rotation pain in shoulder