Shoulder Stiffness: Don't Let it Hold You Back

That nagging tightness or ache in your shoulders? It's likely shoulder stiffness, a common issue that can significantly affect your quality of life. Let's explore what causes it and how to find relief.

Why Are My Shoulders So Stiff?

Several culprits can contribute to this frustrating feeling:

  • Injury: Sprains, strains, or tears in the shoulder's intricate network of muscles, tendons, and ligaments can lead to stiffness as your body tries to protect the injured area.
  • Overuse: Repetitive motions, whether from sports, work, or even hobbies, can put excessive strain on the shoulder, resulting in stiffness and discomfort.
  • Poor Posture: Hours spent hunched over a desk or phone can create muscle imbalances and stiffness. Your shoulders weren’t meant to hold that position for long!
  • Stress: High levels of the stress hormone cortisol can cause muscle tension throughout the body, including the shoulders, leading to stiffness and reduced mobility.
  • Underlying Medical Conditions: Conditions like arthritis, frozen shoulder, or bursitis can cause inflammation and stiffness in the shoulder joint.

Recognizing the Signs

Shoulder stiffness can manifest in a few telltale ways:

  • Difficulty raising your arm or reaching behind your back
  • Pain or discomfort when moving your shoulder
  • A feeling of tightness or restricted movement in the shoulder joint
  • A clicking or popping sensation in the shoulder

Find Relief and Restore Movement

While addressing the root cause is key, these approaches can help ease shoulder stiffness:

  • Stretching: Gentle stretches improve flexibility and range of motion in the shoulder.
  • Heat Therapy: Applying heat relaxes muscles and increases blood flow, promoting healing.
  • Massage: A professional massage can be very effective in releasing muscle tension and improving mobility.
  • Stress Management: Chronic stress can elevate cortisol levels, exacerbating muscle tension and inflammation. Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help manage stress and reduce cortisol, offering potential relief from shoulder stiffness

Ready to Move Freely Again?

Don't let shoulder stiffness hold you back from living your life to the fullest. Book a massage at Mầm Massage Therapy & Healing Spa. Our skilled therapists will create a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and help you find relief.

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