Acromioclavicular (AC) joint strains are a common injury, especially among athletes and active individuals. The AC joint, located at the top of the shoulder, connects the acromion (part of the scapula) to the clavicle. Injuries to this joint can range from mild strains to severe separations, often resulting in pain, swelling, and reduced shoulder function. A common question that arises when dealing with AC joint strains is whether inactivity can exacerbate the condition. In this post, we will explore the impact of inactivity on AC joint strains and how a multidisciplinary approach, like the one offered at CARESPACE, can aid in effective recovery.
Understanding AC Joint Strains
AC joint strains occur when the ligaments that hold the acromion and clavicle together are stretched or torn. This injury is often the result of a fall onto the shoulder, a direct blow, or heavy lifting. Symptoms typically include shoulder pain, swelling, tenderness, and sometimes a visible bump on the shoulder.
The Role of Activity in Healing
Inactivity might seem like the logical response to an injury, particularly when movement causes pain. However, prolonged inactivity can actually hinder the healing process of AC joint strains. When a joint is immobilized for too long, several negative effects can occur:
1. Muscle Atrophy: Muscles around the shoulder can weaken and shrink due to lack of use. This weakness can delay recovery and make the joint more susceptible to further injury.
2. Stiffness: Joints and muscles can become stiff and lose their range of motion. This can lead to a longer rehabilitation period as the joint needs to be mobilized and muscles reconditioned.
3. Poor Circulation: Movement helps to promote blood flow to the injured area, bringing essential nutrients and oxygen needed for healing. Inactivity reduces circulation, potentially slowing the repair process.
The Importance of Guided Activity
While excessive activity can exacerbate the injury, guided and controlled movements are crucial for recovery. This is where professional guidance from physiotherapists and chiropractic doctors becomes invaluable.
How CARESPACE Can Help
At CARESPACE, our multidisciplinary approach ensures that you receive a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan for your AC joint strain. Our team includes physiotherapists, chiropractic doctors, and other health professionals who work together to address all aspects of your condition.
Physiotherapy for AC Joint Strains
Physiotherapists play a critical role in the recovery process of AC joint strains. They use various techniques to help restore function and strength to the shoulder. Some of the key components of physiotherapy for AC joint strains include:
1. Assessment and Diagnosis: Physiotherapists conduct thorough assessments to understand the severity of the strain and to identify any contributing factors, such as muscle imbalances or poor posture.
2. Pain Management: Techniques such as ice treatment, heat treatment, and ultrasound can help reduce pain and inflammation in the acute stages of the injury.
3. Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle stretching exercises are introduced to maintain and gradually improve the range of motion of the shoulder joint.
4. Strengthening Exercises: As the pain subsides, physiotherapists will introduce strengthening exercises to rebuild the muscles around the AC joint. This helps to stabilize the joint and prevent future injuries.
5. Functional Training: Physiotherapists also focus on functional exercises that mimic daily activities and sports-specific movements, ensuring that the client can return to their normal routine safely.
Chiropractic Care for AC Joint Strains
Chiropractic care complements physiotherapy by addressing any misalignments and ensuring proper joint mechanics. Chiropractic doctors at CARESPACE use several techniques to aid in the recovery of AC joint strains:
1. Joint Adjustments: Gentle adjustments can help realign the AC joint and surrounding structures, reducing pain and improving mobility.
2. Soft Tissue Treatment: Techniques such as myofascial release can help relieve tension in the muscles and ligaments around the shoulder, promoting better healing.
3. Postural Correction: Chiropractors assess and correct postural issues that may have contributed to the injury or could hinder recovery. Proper posture is essential for balanced muscle use and joint function.
4. Education and Ergonomic Advice: Chiropractors provide clients with advice on how to avoid re-injury through proper ergonomics and body mechanics in daily activities and sports.
The Synergy of Multidisciplinary Care
At CARESPACE, our physiotherapists and chiropractic doctors collaborate closely to provide a holistic treatment approach. This synergy ensures that all aspects of the injury are addressed, from pain management and mobility restoration to strength building and functional training. For instance, a client might begin their treatment with pain management techniques from both physiotherapists and chiropractors. As pain decreases, physiotherapists introduce range of motion and strengthening exercises, while chiropractors focus on joint adjustments and postural corrections. This coordinated care approach not only accelerates recovery but also helps to prevent future injuries by addressing the root causes and contributing factors comprehensively.
Inactivity can indeed make AC joint strains worse by leading to muscle atrophy, stiffness, and poor circulation. However, a well-guided and balanced approach to activity, facilitated by professional care, can significantly enhance the healing process. At CARESPACE, our team of physiotherapists and chiropractic doctors work together to provide a personalized, evidence-based treatment plan that promotes fast, effective, and long-lasting results. By addressing the injury from multiple angles, we help our clients achieve their health goals and return to their normal activities safely and efficiently. If you or someone you know is dealing with an AC joint strain, consider reaching out to CARESPACE for a comprehensive and coordinated plan of care that is tailored to your specific needs. Our multidisciplinary approach ensures that you receive the best possible care, allowing you to recover and thrive.
