Are you suffering from shoulder pain? If your pain doesn't improve after a little TLC at home, it's a good idea to pay a visit to your Richmond, VA, chiropractor, Dr. Scott Shaw of Shaw Chiropractic Center.

Treating shoulder pain at home

When pain strikes, ice can relieve pain and inflammation naturally. Use an ice pack for the first one to two days after the pain starts. Keep the ice pack on your shoulder for no more than 20 minutes at a time, and wait another 20 minutes to reapply it to prevent frostbite.

After two days, start using a hot water bottle or heating pad on your shoulder instead of ice. Heat increases blood flow to your shoulder, improves your range of motion, and reduces pain, stiffness, and muscle spasms.

When to call the chiropractor

Waiting too long to receive professional treatment for a shoulder injury may increase your risk of chronic pain and limited movement. If your pain doesn't lessen after a week or two, pick up the phone and call the Richmond, VA, chiropractic office. Don't wait a week to call if your shoulder is swollen or bruised, or it's difficult to raise or use your arm.

Chiropractors treat many types of shoulder injuries, including those caused by:

• Dislocations or instability in the shoulder joint
• Arthritis
• Tendinitis
• Bursitis
• Spinal misalignment
• Biceps tendon ruptures
• Tears in the cartilage that helps keep your arm in your shoulder socket
• Rotator cuff tears

During your appointment, your chiropractor will examine your shoulder, discuss your symptoms and your medical history, and might recommend diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans.

Treatment depends on your diagnosis and the severity of your condition. Massage therapy may be used to loosen tight muscles and break apart scar tissue that could limit your range of motion.

Joint mobilization or adjustments may also be used to improve the mobility and alignment of your spine and shoulder joint.

Relieve your shoulder pain with chiropractic care! Call your chiropractor in Richmond, VA, Dr. Shaw of Shaw Chiropractic Center at (804) 741-3068 to schedule your appointment.