Rotator Cuff Injuries
Rotator cuff injuries are a common category of shoulder problems that can appear at any age. But one of the reasons why Life Balance Clinic receives patients seeking treatment for rotator cuff pain in Chicago is lack of awareness about what it is. Your rotator cuff is a set of four muscles that control shoulder rotation and abduction (movement of a limb away from you). They are quite small, but must take on the role of providing stability and strength during movement.
Causes of Rotator Cuff Pain
Rotator cuff pain and injury is caused by incorrect movement or excessive loading, both of which pull the muscles out of alignment and lead to excessive stress. This can lead to tearing of the muscles and tendons. While some patients have severe, immediate tearing, others develop acute inflammation (tendinitis) or chronic irritation (tendinopathy).
Activities that involve overhead movements are the most likely causes of rotator cuff injury. Baseball pitching, tennis, and volleyball are common triggers, as is swimming and weightlifting. Occupations that involve heavy lifting are also risk factors. Age-related muscle and connective tissue degeneration make rotator cuff injuries more common as you get older, but long-term accumulation of damage can take years before suddenly flaring up.
Benefits of Treating Rotator Cuff Pain with Acupuncture
Conventional rotator cuff pain treatment relies on symptomatic relief and may even speed up tissue degeneration. On the other hand, research shows that acupuncture for rotator cuff injuries, including laser acupuncture, can significantly reduce pain and disability. Some patients even have increased tendon thickness, demonstrating true repair. All of these benefits are without harmful side effects, so you can be assured that you aren’t trading one problem for another. They are, however, linked to reductions in inflammatory signaling chemicals that contribute to tissue damage and chronic pain.
Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine in Chicago
If you live in Glenview, IL, or neighbouring Chicago suburbs, and want to try laser acupuncture for rotator cuff injuries, look no further than Life Balance Clinic. Dr. Vadim Dekhtyar has over 30 years of experience in both the conventional and Chinese medicine worlds, and can help you find the right treatment plan.