If you’re suffering from shoulder pain you’re not alone. Shoulder pain is regarded as one of the most frequently reported non-traumatic complaints that arise from the upper extremity (neck, arms & shoulder) area. An estimated 27% of Americans suffer from non-traumatic shoulder pain at any given time. And the Harvard Medical Review estimates that "up to 70% of people will experience shoulder pain" at some point. The majority of shoulder pain complaints are attributed to overuse rather than specific trauma. Many patients are surprised to learn that upper extremity pain and injury is the second most common cause of occupational injury claims. Your shoulder is a unique multi-axial joint capable of complex movement and manipulating heavy loads. Its frequent everyday use to perform complex movements, manipulate heavy loads and perform repetitive movements during work, sports, exercise and nearly anything we humans do. As such, it is subject to a variety of painful conditions such as adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder), arthritides (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatica, etc.), as well as more common issues such as joint instability due to muscle fatigue/weakness, inflammation, impingement syndromes or acute injury. It’s common that patients report living with the pain and discomfort for too long because they:
If not addressed, shoulder conditions may lead to more serious issues such as frozen shoulder or SLAP tears. It’s vital to seek care before your condition evolves into chronic pain and debilitating loss of mobility. When to Seek Emergency CareUrgent care is needed if you have sustained a traumatic or injury - especially if there is severe bleeding, potential broken bones, swelling, discoloration, or other acute symptoms. Shoulder pain may also be a symptom of a heart attack. Call 911 immediately if your shoulder pain:
Trauma or Overuse?Shoulder injuries are primarily categorized as ‘traumatic’ or ‘overuse’. If your shoulder pain began as a mild ache and/or stiffness, rather than the result of a specific traumatic event, it's most likely an overuse injury. Overuse shoulder injuries develop over time as the result of repetitive use. Patients typically report ignoring the warning signs at first because the pain and stiffness began mild with the intensity growing over time. You should schedule an examination as soon as possible if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
Recommended Treatment OptionsConservative, non-invasive and drug-free therapies are recommended as primary treatment approach for soft-tissue shoulder injuries. Chiropractic therapy, physical therapy, rest and strengthening exercises are the recommended treatment method for most shoulder conditions. In fact, the NIH reports that "The effects of surgery plus physiotherapy compared to physiotherapy alone on improving pain and function are too small to be clinically important." This is true in the short term (3 & 6-month check ups) as well as long term follow up (1, 2, 5 and 10-year). Dr. Dukes and her team use a multifaceted approach to treat shoulder pain that typically employs several of the following techniques:
Common Causes of Non-Traumatic Shoulder PainShoulder tendinitis is typically an overuse response to repetitive motion. It’s common among laborers and athletes. Those with that lift with improper form, awkward balance or poor posture are at greater risk because they place excessive stress on shoulder tissues and tendons. Bursitis can cause stiffness and swelling in addition to a general ache in the shoulder. It may be irritating when you apply pressure to the shoulder or move it. This occurs when the small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion and protect bones, tendons, and muscles become inflamed. It is most commonly due to overuse due to repetitive motions. shoulder, injections to reduce more severe inflammation or surgery. Surgery is rarely needed in the treatment of bursitis. Rotator cuff tears are common and typically occur as a result of wear and tear due to overuse or from sudden trauma. Your arm may feel weak or fatigued and the pain tends to be a dull achy feeling that worsens if you sleep on the affected shoulder. Frozen shoulder most often occurs because shoulder movement has been limited due to a medical procedure, ignoring a shoulder condition or some other factor that prevented normal shoulder movement over time. The condition gradually worsens, causing pain and potentially extreme joint stiffness with loss of mobility. Recovering mobility typically takes 12 to 18 months of specific therapy. Frozen shoulder symptoms present in three phases (1) Freezing – Concurrent pain and limited range of motion that worsens over time; (2) Frozen – Extreme stiffness often results in highly limited mobility; pain symptoms may be reduced during this stage; (3) Thawing – Mobility slowly improves over time. ConclusionYour body is an incredible healing machine. Early treatment and intervention will help avoid more extensive damage as well as improve your healing trajectory.
If you're struggling to find relief, Dr. Dukes can help. She'll listen to you, find the root cause of your pain, then help you chose the best course of care for you. Call today! (813) 752-2524 Schedule your consultation with Dr. Dukes and experience the difference for yourself.
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As a healthcare practitioner, I'm always on the lookout for cutting edge treatment options to help my patients. I was skeptical when I first heard about the results a colleague was getting with pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy. I wanted to know about evidence-based studies, potential risks and success rates over time before introducing this new procedure to my patients. based on large group studies. So I reached out for details. I was impressed. The studies and testimonials I reviewed convinced me to give it a try. That was over 5 years ago now and I've learned a lot. My patients will concur that PEMF therapy is extremely effective in treating chronic conditions and accelerating healing – particularly when used in combination with more traditional chiropractic therapies. Know What Your Doctor Didn't Tell You When patients come to me after struggling to find relief from chronic conditions, they often feel alone. Many report being frustrated with traditional medical approaches. One patient, we’ll call her ‘Meg’, was visibly upset when we first met. She told me that her doctor didn’t take her seriously and even told her the pain was ‘all in her head’. She’s not alone. Millions of chronic pain sufferers struggle to be taken seriously by their primary care providers. often with little success from traditional medicine. Dr. Karima Hirani's book, "What Your Doctor Didn't Tell You," promotes the use of advanced therapies such as PEMF. The truth is that people have found symptom relief from Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy for a wide range of conditions. And PEMF therapy is considered safe when used within appropriate guidelines because it is non-invasive and drug-free. PEMF therapy has been shown in several studies to be safe and effective. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, twice-daily use of a portable PEMF unit was found to produce a reduction in pain severity in patients, showing that regular use of this therapy can help in managing chronic pain. Another study indicated that PEMF therapy is safe for patients with chronic non-specific neck pain. While it didn't provide further benefits in this particular case, the safety of the treatment underscores its potential as an alternative therapy for those dealing with chronic pain. There are also indications that PEMF therapy could serve as a good early intervention to help accelerate healing while managing pain. Furthermore, some individuals have reported positive experiences with PEMF treatment for pain, despite the fact that it can sometimes take a while to achieve pain relief. Finally, consumer reports highlight the desperation of many Americans for safe and effective treatments for chronic pain. In this context, PEMF therapy emerges as a promising solution, providing difficult-to-treat pain relief without invasive surgeries or addictive drugs. How PEMF Therapy Works PEMF therapy uses low-frequency electromagnetic waves to stimulate cells in the body. This type of therapy is non-invasive and has been found to aid in cellular regeneration, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain. The therapy works by stimulating the cells' natural vibrations, thereby promoting healing and regeneration. PEMF therapy works by sending electromagnetic waves into the body. These waves can penetrate deep into the tissue, where they stimulate cells, increase blood flow, and boost cellular repair. As a result, the therapy can alleviate many conditions, including inflammation, joint pain, and wound healing. Studies have shown that PEMF therapy is a safe and effective way to reduce inflammation. When cells are exposed to magnetic fields, the body's production of nitric oxide increases, which reduces inflammation in the body. Studies have shown that PEMF therapy can reduce inflammation levels in the body by up to 75%. Another benefit of PEMF therapy is its ability to aid in cellular regeneration. By stimulating cells' natural vibrations, the therapy can help to repair damaged tissue and promote healing. This can be particularly helpful for athletes who suffer from injuries or people with chronic conditions. PEMF therapy can help alleviate pain and promote healing in various conditions, such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and neuropathy. By stimulating the body's natural healing processes, the therapy can help reduce pain levels and improve overall wellness. PEMF Therapy Compliments Traditional Treatment Options Dr. Dukes has integrated Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy into her traditional treatment protocols for years to boost the treatment of both chronic and acute pain conditions. She has found that PEMF Therapy amplifies the effectiveness of traditional chiropractic adjustments effectively, providing more comprehensive patient care and accelerated positive outcomes. PEMF therapy is simply an additional modality and therapeutic option, like massage or laser therapy, that can complement chiropractic care to improve pain relief, wound healing, and tissue regeneration. Dr. Dukes knows that integrating PEMF therapy into chiropractic care plans is a a significant step forward in enhancing patient outcomes. Questions to Ask Before Starting PEMF Therapy Of course, if you're considering PEMF therapy as part of your treatment, you should ask a lot of questions to help you make an informed decision about whether or not it's right for you. In this article, Dr. Dukes will try to answer each of these questions:
Benefits of PEMF Therapy PEMF therapy is a non-invasive therapy has been found to aid in reducing inflammation, alleviating pain and a host of other conditions. It's a safe and effective way to help stimulate healing because it works in harmony with the body's own recovery processes and can help relieve chronic pain safely..
Potential Risks & Side Effects of PEMF Therapy PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) therapy is generally considered safe when the practitioner employs best practices. Even so, some individuals may experience side effects which may include:
How long does a typical PEMF Therapy Session Last and How Many Sessions will I Need? A typical Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy session tends to last between 15 and 30 minutes and the total number of sessions required to each specific to each patient’s condition, needs and course of care. Session duration and frequency obviously varies based on the individual patient's condition and the recommended treatment plan. Recently a patient suffering from a lower back injury was treated with one 40-minute session per day, 3 days per week over 12 weeks in conjunction with a variety of other therapies. Another patient finds relief from OA flareups through 20 minute sessions, 2x times per day over 10 days. In summary, the duration and frequency of PEMF therapy sessions can greatly vary based on individual needs and conditions. Therefore, patients should always to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most safe, appropriate and effective treatment plan. What Does PEMF Therapy Feel Like? Dr. Dukes patients often describe PEMF therapy as a soothing and gentle experience. The therapy involves the use of magnetic pulses that can be adjusted individually, so they do not cause any pain or discomfort. However, during the treatment, you will feel the pulsing of the mild magnetic current as it flows through your body. PEMF devices come in a variety of shapes from small pads for acute application to full body applicator systems look like a thin mattress. Regardless of the device type, you should not feel any pain during treatment. As the PEMF system works, you'll feel the pulse. Some patients might find that the areas that require treatment will visibly move as the cells are engaged. This movement is a result of the therapy working on cellular regeneration to resolve injuries and chronic conditions. The sensation of PEMF therapy is often described with words like "tingling" or "pulsating5". On less intense days, it can feel like a persistent throb stretching along the treated area. It's also important to note that PEMF therapy can typically lower blood pressure, so if you already have very low blood pressure, be certain to let your provider know during your consultation as you may feel lightheaded. In What Conditions or Circumstances Should PEMF Therapy Not Be Used?
What Qualifications are Required to Perform PEMF Therapy?
PEMF Therapy Facilitates Greater Patient Outcomes
PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) therapy and chiropractic therapy are two distinct methodologies that, when combined, can potentially offer an enhanced healing experience. Both aim to promote the body's natural healing processes, through non-invasive, drug-free and proven effective therapies. PEMF therapy uses electromagnetic fields to stimulate cell metabolism, increase oxygen supply, and improve circulation, thereby promoting healing and reducing inflammation. Integrating PEMF therapy into a chiropractic practice can provide a comprehensive approach to patient care. The chiropractic adjustment realigns the spine, relieving pressure on compressed nerves, while PEMF therapy enhances cellular function and promotes tissue healing. This combination can accelerate recovery from injury or illness, reduce pain, and improve overall wellness. The non-invasive nature of both treatments makes them a preferred choice for patients seeking safer choices. Chiropractic adjustments are generally safe, with minor side effects such as temporary discomfort in the treated areas. Similarly, PEMF therapy boasts a low-risk profile, with the most common side effects being mild discomfort or nausea, typically subsiding after the body adjusts to the treatment. PEMF therapy and chiropractic care are two complementary therapies that, when used together, can offer a broad spectrum of health benefits. Their ability to stimulate the body's natural healing processes at different levels—structural and cellular— provides a powerfully effective approach to healthcare. As research continues to evolve, I predict that you’ll see growing interest in the integration of these therapies as I’ve witnessed first-hand how PEMF therapy has been used to successfully treat chronic pain and inflammation in my patients. You don’t have to suffer. Dr. Dukes can help. Call (813) 752-2525. Schedule your consultation. Learn if PEMF therapy is right for you. We want to help you take back control, free yourself from the pain and get back to living life on your terms. Sports Injuries and Improved Performance Any parent of a child who plays baseball, soccer, gymnastics, or any other sport, knows that injuries will happen. So how does a parent help ensure the best course of care for their child? Parents looking to ensure their athletes health should consider talking to Dr. Dukes and learning about the benefits of chiropractic treatment of acute injuries, preventative care and to improve performance - all naturally without the risk associated with dangerous drugs or invasive surgeries. Dr. Dukes and her team employ natural, drug-free and non-surgical treatment for many musculoskeletal injuries and preventative care. Athletes benefit greatly from chiropractic care and most professional sports organizations from the NFL to the MLB and the MLS provide regular chiropractic care for their athletes. Kids looking for competitive advantage have found that chiropractic care improves agility, balance, kinetic perception, power and reaction time. Here is a deeper dive into the benefits for athletes: 1. Improve range of motion and performance. Athletes often experience bouts of joint stiffness which reduces range of motion. The results is reduced performance efficiency and increased risk of injury. Typically chiropractic manipulation is employed to improve motion within the joint spacel followed by mobility treatment to improve joint health. 2. Improved recovery and injury prevention. It's critical to address both acute (new) injuries as well as assess the athlete as a whole through musculoskeletal, neurological, and orthopedic examination to prevent chronic issues. By considering the 'whole patient' Dr. Dukes athlete patients often report shorter recovery times and reduced flare-ups of chronic injuries. 3. Healthier gut through reduced use of drug treatment. The risks of opioid pain killers is obvious but did you know that over-the counter pain-relievers and anti-inflammatories cause a host of issues too? Common pain-relievers and anti-inflammatories kill the flora in our gut which causes a host of issues - particularly for athletes. Chiropractic care can allow your body to naturally relieve pain and inflammation so that athletes can find relief without exposing themselves to drug risks and side-effects. 4. The competitive advantage of champions. Champions utilize chiropractic to feel and perform thier best. Here's what a few of the greatest athletes of all time have to say: “Chiropractic just makes you feel so much better. When I walk out of the clinic, I feel like I’m about three inches taller and everything’s in place. And as long as I see the Chiropractor, I feel like I’m one step ahead of the game.” – Tom Brady “Chiropractic gives me the flexibility I need to keep in the game.” – Venus Williams “I didn’t know how much I could improve until I started seeing a Chiropractor. Since I’ve been in Chiropractic, I’ve improved by leaps and bounds both mentally and physically.” – Michael Jordan Chiropractic care helps athletes of all ages. Whether you are a champion athlete or growing to become one, call Dr. Dukes today (814) 752-2524. Schedule your consultation. Learn how Chiropractic can help you improve your performance and feel your best game in and game out. |
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