Upper Limbs

There are many conditions that exist in the upper limbs that may benefit from Osteopathic treatment. This list is by no means exhaustive. It is important to contact Bribie Osteopathy and speak to me about any concerns you may have.

Shoulders arms and hands (including wrists and elbows), are often the brunt of repetitive biomechanics (we use our arms a lot!). Sometimes they are carrying trauma from falls and sports injuries and there are times when the problem is in fact referred pain from the neck and spine. Even the ribs can and often be an area that refers pain via the brachial plexus.

Some of the more common conditions for the shoulder  include:

Shoulder:

Tendon “it is” (inflammation) or “osis” (thickening)

Often an “osis” can be inflamed as certain tendons are overused. It is important to release the strain and re-educate these muscles. The symptoms can vary from a dull ache to a burning sensation.

Pain lifting or lying on arm

Can be Rotator cuff tears (one of the four muscles that hold your shoulder in the socket)

Could also be impingement – when the tendons of the shoulder are “impinged on” (pinched during movements and /or lifting or lying on arm. This often includes the bursa as well (bursitis).

These diagnoses often co-exist.

Osteoarthritis often plays a role in these symptoms.  Although this does not mean that there is nothing that can be done.

Pain at the tip of the shoulder – Acromioclavicular joint pain (tip of collar bone joins the shoulder blade). Sometimes pulling hard on something or landing on your shoulder can upset this balance.

Shoulder “freezes up” (Adhesive Capsulitis) – This condition has a cycle over 18 months – 2 years where the shoulder freezes (stiffens up) and then thaws (starts to move). It is important to know when this occurs as there is not a lot that can be done until the thawing stage.

Pain in Upper shoulders and back after a long day at work

Often looking at work ergonomics and treating and exercise is a good way to address this.

Referred pain

From the spine, ribs, muscle trigger points and facet joints in the neck are all capable of referring pain.