How to Tell If You Have a Torn Rotator Cuff

A rotator cuff is an important part of the mechanics of the human body. When a person raises up their arm straight out, up, or in, along with flexing the elbow, it is shoulder related. This is because there are a group of tendons and muscles that make this happen. When this area is torn or damaged, it will no longer work properly, or at least it won't work without pain.

Shoulder injuries can be somewhat bothersome or can be extremely painful. The reason is because of a bone spur. When the tendon rubs it for a while, it will tear. A person may only be bothered when trying to sleep at night and it feels like something is stuck or is painful lying on it although I have found that the pain with pressure comes after it gets worse, not in the beginning.

Depending on the size of the tear of the rotator cuff, exercise and therapy is almost always required for recovery. Rest, Ice, Cortisone Injections and massage might also be used. If the tear is large, surgery will be needed along with physical therapy. It takes a really long time to heal from shoulder surgery so you'll want to avoid it if it's at all possible.

If a person has a torn rotator cuff and does not do anything at all to treat the problem, then eventually with time the shoulder will deteriorate. There will be weakness in the arm. Eventually you will see a loss of muscle in the shoulder and will have the inability to do many basic things, some as simple as combing your hair.

The causes of a torn rotator cuff besides bone spurs can be an accident, a person becoming older, and a bone disease-because of tiny bone fractures, diseases, and other causes. The real truth is that in any given time and place, almost anything can cause a rotator cuff tear.

If anything just does not feel normal in the upper arm area or shoulder, or even both when you need to reach high for something or lift something, it's advisable to get it checked by a doctor. Some people will hear a popping sound in their shoulder, feel pain, or loose strength. All of these are signs that something is wrong.

The good news is that most torn rotator cuffs can be repaired with exercise and therapy as long as you start treatment early. Letting it go, will only make things more difficult.

Microwave Slippers

HotSlippers

For those cold winter days and nights or for curling up with a good book or perhaps in front of the television to watch your favorite show or movie, HotSlippers are the perfect choice for warming your feet. These slippers are great for even spending the day around the house and are microwavable which creates the warmth. The slippers are easy enough to use, just put them in the microwave for ninety seconds to two minutes. They will provide warmth and a soothing comfort to your feet.

These HotSlippers are wonderful for ridding one of pain or aches due to putting in a hard day of work. These slippers are filled with wheat grains, which help to hold in the heat, and lavender is infused into them to provide a great smelling fragrance. The materials these slippers are made from are a pile faux fur that is of excellent quality and will provide your feet with even more warmth.

HotSlippers come in a variety of assorted colors such as red, lilac, brown, hot pink, beige, aqua, and cream. They come in a size that will fit most people's feet; their sizes range in adult sizes three through seven. These slippers will feel like a total luxury to your feet and are great not only for yourself but make a great gift as well for anyone who wants to keep their feet warm. They are perfect for a day of relaxation and to unwind with but are only able to be worn indoors.

These slippers are perfect for any adult and are ideal as a gift especially for those who want warm feet and love the scent of French lavender that is added into the slippers. Or for anyone who wants a slipper that is made of good quality materials that are super soft and comfortable to wear.

They are manufactured from a company in the United Kingdom that restocks their products daily and have other products available as well such as cute novelty slippers that appeal to children. So whatever the reason may be whether it is to relax and pamper your feet with a feeling of luxury or to soothe away your aches and pains from overworked feet from a long day on the job; these slippers will make a great purchase.

Shoulder Pain - Causes and Treatment

Shoulder Pain can be caused by a wide range of injuries or conditions. The shoulder joint itself is an extremely mobile joint with very low stability, leaving it open to injuries such as dislocations. The shoulder girdle (the joint itself, plus the AC joint, Scapula and surrounding muscles/ligaments/tendons) is also heavily involved in upper back and neck posture and so postural problems and muscle imbalances are also common shoulder issues.

In general, shoulder injuries can be divided into two categories:
Acute (traumatic) injuriesOveruse/postural injuries

Acute Injuries

Acute injuries are those that occur as a result of a sudden force or movement at the joint. The individual will usually know exactly when the injury happened and can often describe the event. They often describe a sudden pain and sometimes a clicking or popping sensation.

Acute injuries may include:
Shoulder dislocationsAC joint injuriesRotator cuff tearsGlenoid labrum injuriesClavicle fractures

Treatment of an acute injury should involve immediate rest and the application of cold therapy, in the form of an ice pack or wrap. Taking the weight of the arm off the shoulder using a sling may also be recommended. Medical attention should then be sought to determine the nature of the injury and the appropriate course of treatment.

Overuse Injuries

Overuse injuries are those where shoulder pain develops over a period of time, gradually becoming worse until the individual seeks medical attention. They usually cannot pin-point a specific incident which caused the pain and quite often the pain is not easy to pin-point, with no specific tender area. Overuse injuries are usually related to either poor posture or poor sporting technique (or any other activity), or both!

Common overuse injuries include:
Impingement syndromesRotator cuff tendinopathyBursitis

Treatment of an overuse injury is often more difficult than an acute injury. Initially the aggravating activity should be ceased to allow the tissues involve to rest. Soft tissue treatments and electrotherapy may also be used to reduce pain and inflammation, as well as breaking down scar tissue and increasing muscle flexibility.

Once pain and inflammation have subsided, an exercise rehabilitation programme is usually implemented to address any postural problems and muscle imbalances which may have contributed to the injury. Other factors such as poor technique, training errors and unsuitable equipment should also be corrected.

Radiating Pain Due To Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) generally affects woman more than it would men. It occurs most often in the 35 to 55 age group. Thoracic outlet syndrome has to be differentiated from other conditions that may simulate the symptoms found in this condition. Thoracic outlet syndrome can be attributed to two different categories, neurogenic or vascular. Neurogenic, possibly the most prevalent is due to entrapment of nerves and can be due to various causes. The vascular type is due to obstruction of blood vessels emanating in the neck, shoulder, armpit (axilla), and upper arm.

Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (NTOS) can be due to a congenital condition or a trauma to the neck or shoulder. A trauma such as a whiplash injury sustained in an automobile accident or a severe fall, or an injury sustained in contact sports can be such a causative factor. Any such trauma can affect the cervical spine or muscles, tendons and ligaments in the neck and shoulder. Any individual displaying neurogenic (nerve) or vascular (circulatory) symptoms should consult a Chiropractor or Physician for a comprehensive examination. His/her examination will include various orthopedic tests, x-rays, and possibly an MRI if indicated. There may also be other tests, such as an EMG to evaluate the normal function of the nerves.

The nerves that will be affected are the 8th cervical (C8) to the 1st thoracic (T1) found in the base of the neck and the spine, between the shoulder blades (scapulae). The nerves can be compressed or tractioned (pulled) at several sites, due to a variety of reasons. A congenital condition such as "cervical ribs" may be causing pressure on nerves or blood vessels. A cervical rib is an enlargement, or an overgrowth of the transverse processes of the 7th cervical vertebra or 1st thoracic vertebra. If the cervical rib is abnormally enlarged, surgical intervention may be necessary. If the patient can obtain relief with other treatment methods, that of course would be the best course to adopt.

Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (NTOS) will present such symptoms as pain, numbness and tingling (neurasthenia) in the neck, with pain, numbness and tingling radiating into the armpit (axilla), upper arm, forearm and hand. The fingers are also involved and usually affect the 4th and 5th, or the 1st and 3rd fingers. As the condition progresses there will develop a weakness in the arm and hand. Further progression will cause atrophy of the muscles and a greater weakness, interfering with the normal use of the arm, hand and fingers.

Vascular thoracic outlet syndrome (VTOS) will affect the blood vessels in the neck, shoulder, armpit, arm, forearm and hand. The vessels that are usually affected are the subclavian or the brachial plexus. Any compression of these vessels, whether due to bone, muscle, inflammation, or scar tissue will cause an impairment of the circulation. The vascular changes will be most apparent in the hand. There will be loss of circulation causing a blanching (cyanosis) and swelling. Severe cases can cause a condition known as "Raynaud's phenomenom. Raynaud's phenomenom generally causes a burning sensation in the hand. The blanching occurs intermittently and is usually triggered by cold. Usually Raynaud's is secondary to thoracic outlet syndrome. If left untreated a rare result may occur that will result in a distal gangrene.

On rare occasions, another class of symptoms may occur. When the subclavian artery is blocked near the origin of the vertebral artery, there can occur a reverse blood flow to the brain causing cerebrovascular symptoms. This is not the usual thoracic outlet syndrome we are discussing at this time. This is another condition that is due to the correlation of pressure on the subclavian artery.

Thoracic outlet syndrome, like any other condition that affects the nerves, muscles and blood vessels, needs to be treated as soon as symptoms become apparent. Visiting their Chiropractor or physician as stated earlier in this article, should be their first order of business. In most instances the Chiropractor is best suited to treat the nerve impingement that is certainly present. He/she will find the cause of impingement and treat the patient to remove the causative factor. He/she will also treat the patient with adjunctive therapies, such as, electric muscle stimulation, ultrasound, trigger point massage therapy and diathermy,

The patient will generally respond well to this therapy and Chiropractic treatment. However, it is up to the patient to help in their treatment. With home healthcare, they will speed their recovery while alleviating the pain that will be ongoing as they receive treatment from their Chiropractor or their Physician. Using a good analgesic gel can relieve pain and muscle spasms. The use of a vibrator that has hot or cold can add to therapy adjuncts and. can be very soothing. The alternate use of hot and cold in conjunction with the vibration will also be beneficial in increasing circulation and removing toxins from the muscles. It will also relieve the spasms that may be present. Maintaining an exercise program, will prevent muscle atrophy, keeping the muscles strong and flexible.

Taking charge from the very onset of this condition will help the individual to attain the relief from pain and disability that will return them to a happier, pain-free existence. The homecare can be the most defining factor in obtaining a speedy recovery, or for not, allowing this condition to progress to a point where there will be ongoing pain and muscle atrophy. Should it reach that stage, normal life will not be the same. Everyday activities, such as household chores, work, and sports will not be part of the normal daily activities, and enjoying life will not be possible to the fullest extent that it can be.

Repetitive Strain - Prevention Is Better Than Cure

Regular repetition of mechanical duties within the office environment can give rise to persistent, irreparable harm to the body's muscular, skeletal and nervous systems. Very often known as repetitive strain injury, this condition can impact hugely both on a person's quality of life and on every day enjoyment and effectiveness of performance. As with all hazards in the work place, forewarned is forearmed. It is useful to recognize the origins of RSI so that possible harm to the hands, wrists, and arms can be prevented. Repetitive strain injury is probably the biggest health concern confronting office workers today. Any malaise or affliction can make functioning efficiently both difficult and arduous, resulting in a marked reduction in both output and job satisfaction. Be cheerful and healthy at work by observing these valuable hints:

Causes of Strain and Safeguards:

Unaligned wrists

The positioning of the wrists on the keyboard can greatly impact on the general fitness of both wrists and forearms. The perfect position of the wrists is parallel with the arms so as to minimize any unnecessary on them. Wrist strain is especially perilous, as it builds gradually over time. Long term strain prevention requires on going commitment to the proper wrist positioning. It is essential to work with straight wrists at all times to reap the benefits.

Keyboard angle

Normally, keyboards are manufactured with small legs giving the option of an an angled working position. Although minimal, this angle can result in a bend in the wrist and can cause unnecessary strain. It is preferable that the keyboard should lay flat upon the office desk surface or at a slightly downward sloping angle if possible to straighten the wrist.

Impact of keyboard use

Over zealous tapping of the keyboard can have a detrimental effect on arms and hands. Damage to the joints and finger nerve ends can be the end result of forceful keyboard use, eventually spreading and causing pain when typing. A little less force when typing is required. The omission of breaks In a hectic office, it can be all too easy to disregard breaks. However, the constant, repetitive procedures required of many administrative employees can give rise to stress injuries of the severest kind to the hands and arms. Endeavor to take a rest from the office desk for ten minutes or so every hour wherever possible. This small undertaking will rest the joints and keep body and soul fresh and the mind alert.

Sciatic Nerve Pain Relief Stretches

Sciatic nerve pain is an agonizing condition to anyone who suffers from it. Standing, walking and even lying down at night become intensely painful. In some individuals if the condition worsens the damage to the sciatic nerve can start to affect a person's ability to walk or stand properly and most will also suffer from lower back pain and leg pain.

Often tight piriformis, abdominal or hamstring muscles will contribute to misalignment in the lower spine and pelvis and contribute pressure and irritation to the lower spinal nerve roots that make up the sciatic nerve.

We are going to go over five powerful and effective stretches and exercises designed at helping a person avoid sciatic nerve pain and perhaps these may provide some relief to those who are already suffering from either lower back pain or leg pain as a result of damage to the sciatic nerve.

1. The first stretch we are going to do is for the piriformis muscle. You want to lay flat down on the floor on your back. Keep your head on the ground, use a pillow if the surface is too hard to support your head. Keep the legs fully extended straight out. Bring your knees upwards and towards your chest. Cross your left leg over your right leg and bring the left knee towards you. You want to gently bring your knee closer until you feel you are near the maximum stretch and keep it there for approximately 8-10 seconds. Keep your back as flat as possible. Switch to the other side and repeat for the right leg. Do this a couple of times on each side and progress to the next exercise.

2. This exercise is slightly similar but this time you bring one knee up towards you and keep the other leg slightly bent and on or near the floor. Pull the knee towards you and you should feel the stretch through the buttock. Again hold this for approximately 8-10 seconds and switch sides. Repeat this a couple of times each and progress to the next stretch.

3. The next exercise is done flat on the floor again. One leg bent keeping your foot flat and the other leg is kept straight and flat on the floor. You want to make sure you perform this exercise keeping your lower back flat and also against the floor. Elevate the straightened leg approximately 15-20 centimetres above the floor. You want to keep the lower abdominal muscles contracted and tight. Hold this position for about 8-10 seconds then lower the leg down to the floor. Switch sides and perform this with the other leg. Repeat a second time and progress to the next exercise.

4. Sit on the floor with one leg flat and the other one bent at the knee. If you aren't very flexible you can place the flat leg against the wall for stability. Stretch forward toward the top of the foot of the flat leg. Hold this stretch for approximately 8-10 seconds again. Switch sides and perform on the opposite leg. Do this a couple of times each leg and progress to the next exercise.

5. Bend down onto one knee. Bring the heel of your other leg back towards the buttock on the same side while pushing forward with your pelvis. This is a very effective stretch and can also be performed standing. It is important to really isolate the hip flexor muscles. Try and hold this stretch for 8-10 seconds, switch sides and repeat. Perform this a couple of times on each side.If your hip flexor muscles are tight it creates abnormal tension on your lower back and creates what is a called a hyperlordosis which is an increased lumbar curve.

All of these stretches are simple yet effective at providing relief from sciatic nerve pain. As with any exercise or stretching routine, discuss your specific needs and concerns with a qualified medical professional.

Options, Other Than Surgical, for Your Joint Pain

Unless your injury is abrupt and severe, orthopedic surgery should only be considered after all other non-surgical options have been pursued without success. Many symptoms of joint pain develop over time and are therefore less likely to receive the attention they need early enough. If you're starting to experience discomfort in your joints, I have compiled a list of the top five options you must know about before considering orthopedic surgery.

Assessing the situation

Before an individual can effectively evaluate all of the options for treating joint pain, an accurate assessment of the scenario must be made. Providing an answer to the following eight questions will help your physician determine which approach is best suited for you.

Do you experience pain while performing basic everyday activities?Is your joint discomfort restricting your participation in the activities you enjoy or active daily living?Are you unable to walk without the interference of pain?Are you unable to sleep due to your joint pain?Has your joint pain forced you to miss any important events that you would otherwise have attended (e.g., travelling, attending a wedding or religious service, and/or visiting family members)?Do you experience joint pain more than one day per week?Would you classify your pain as mild or more significant?Are non-prescription pain medications no longer effective?

If your answer was "yes" to more than three of the questions listed above, you should discuss treatment options with your physician. You might be a qualified candidate for joint replacement. If your answer was "no" to more than four of these questions, you should be able to manage your joint pain though combined methods such as those listed below. Your physician should be able to suggest the most appropriate approach for your specific condition.

Treatments for joint pain will typically focus on methods for improving mobility and managing discomfort. Those treatments that tend to be most successful utilize a combination of techniques customized to an individual's overall health, needs, and lifestyle. Prior to initiating any treatment strategy, patients should review the most reasonable options with their physicians in order to identify the optimal course of action for them. The five non-surgical treatment options you must consider are listed below.

1) Physical therapy and exercise

Physical therapy and light exercise offer one of the most effective and least expensive treatments for joint pain. There are several benefits that come with this approach, such as...

An improvement in one's general outlook and mood.A noticeable reduction in pain.An increase in joint flexibility.Greater circulation and cardiopulmonary fitness.

2) Weight management

Excessive weight is a lead contributor to joint pain, especially in the hips, knees, and weight bearing joints. Reducing one's body weight to a more desirable point will often aid in the alleviation of pain as well as improve a joint's function. Sustainable weight loss is best achieved by means of a healthy diet and regular exercise. The resulting reduction in stress on the joints will safeguard against further injury.

3) Nontraditional strategies

Provided that a patient's condition is not overly severe, several methods exist for relieving pain and rigidity without using drugs or resorting to surgery. Such approaches include warm towels or baths, heated pools, and hot packs. In some instances, cold packs (a bag of ice or frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel). Alternating between hot and cold at regular intervals can also help to alleviate joint pain.

4) Medicines

Medicines such as acetaminophen, topical creams, mild narcotics, corticosteroids and NSAIDS are regularly administered to mitigate the pain and inflammation of joints. A pharmaceutical approach can only deliver a short-term reprieve from joint pain, therefore it should not be implemented as permanent pain management. Drugs also fail to provide protection against additional joint damage.

5) Rest

Sometimes taking no action is the best choice of all. Often times sports injuries can heal over time as long as you don't push yourself to get back into the action too soon. Of course, the path of 'non-action' can be the most difficult to pursue as many athletes are by nature highly energetic and don't like sitting still for long. If possible, take one to two weeks off from the activities that are aggravating your joint pain. During your time off, apply ice to the joint at regular intervals.

You may even want to try a combination of some or all of the non-surgical approaches. Most importantly, call us as soon as you notice the discomfort exceeding your normal level of fatigue from exertion. We can help you assess which options make the most sense given your specific situation.

If none of the above work...

Joint replacement (partial or total) is an option to be considered by those patients who are no longer receiving pain relief from nonsurgical approaches mentioned above. The replacement or reconstruction of a joint can often result in the complete elimination of pain as well as a total restoration of movement.

Unfortunately, a lot of people today put off joint replacement due to bad information, fear, or a just a simple lack of knowledge regarding the variety alternative treatments. Don't let this be your excuse! There is no good reason for anyone to endure unnecessary physical pain and stiffness that undermine virtually every area of everyday life. Many types of joint pain are degenerative, meaning that any pain and limited mobility from which you may now be suffering will most probably get worse in the long run.