- June 12, 2020

Your Shoulders and Stress: The Hidden Link Between Tension and Tight Traps
Stress is a common part of modern life, but its effects often extend beyond the mind, manifesting physically in areas such as the shoulders and neck. Many patients visiting orthopaedic clinics report persistent shoulder pain and tightness, which can sometimes be traced back to chronic stress and anxiety. How Stress Affects Your Shoulders When you experience stress or anxiety, your body instinctively activates the "fight or flight" response. This natural reaction causes muscles, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and upper back, to contract and tense up as if preparing to face a physical threat. Hormones like adrenaline, cortisol, and norepinephrine ...

The Importance of Shoulder Strength and Stability
Shoulder strength and stability are fundamental to maintaining pain-free, functional shoulders capable of supporting daily activities and athletic pursuits. By understanding the mechanics of shoulder stability and committing to targeted strengthening and posture management, individuals can protect their shoulders from injury and enhance overall quality of life. Shoulder Strength and Stability Significance Shoulder strength and stability are crucial for both athletic performance and injury prevention, given the shoulder’s unique balance between mobility and stability. The glenohumeral joint’s wide range of motion makes it especially reliant on muscular strength and neuromuscular control to maintain stability during dynamic activities and rehabilitation. Without ...

Deltoid Muscle Atrophy
Deltoid muscle atrophy is when the deltoid muscle, crucial for shoulder movement and stability, undergoes wasting or thinning. This can result from various factors, including aging, shoulder injuries, a sedentary lifestyle, and axillary nerve damage. The deltoid muscle plays a vital role in shoulder abduction, and its atrophy can significantly impact an individual's ability to perform daily activities. Understanding the causes and symptoms of deltoid muscle atrophy is essential for effective management and recovery, often involving targeted exercises and physical therapy to restore muscle strength and function. Causes of Deltoid Muscle Atrophy Deltoid muscle atrophy often results from axillary nerve ...

Teres Minor Muscle Atrophy
The teres minor, a small but vital muscle in your shoulder, plays a key role in stabilising joints and enabling movements like reaching overhead or rotating your arm. When this muscle weakens or wastes away—a condition called teres minor muscle atrophy—it can lead to pain, reduced mobility, and challenges in daily life. Let’s learn what causes this condition, how it’s diagnosed, and most importantly, how you can regain strength and mobility. Causes of Teres Minor Muscle Atrophy Teres minor muscle atrophy often results from injuries or conditions affecting the shoulder. Common causes include: Quadrilateral Space Syndrome (QSS): Chronic compression of ...

Supraspinatus Muscle Atrophy
Supraspinatus muscle atrophy refers to the wasting or thinning of the supraspinatus muscle, a critical component of the rotator cuff responsible for shoulder stability and movement. This condition often results from chronic rotator cuff tears, nerve injuries, or prolonged disuse, leading to impaired shoulder function. It is commonly associated with fatty degeneration and reduced muscle strength, significantly affecting daily activities. Timely diagnosis and correction are crucial to avert future deterioration and enhance results, as unaddressed atrophy can significantly impair shoulder mechanics and quality of life. Causes of Supraspinatus Muscle Atrophy The causes of supraspinatus muscle atrophy are multifaceted, involving factors ...

Silent Deltoid Atrophy in Volleyball Players
Volleyball, particularly at competitive levels, demands intense shoulder activity, placing athletes at risk of specific nerve-related muscle issues. One such condition is silent deltoid atrophy, a subtle yet impactful problem that can affect performance and long-term shoulder health. Understanding Silent Deltoid Atrophy Silent deltoid atrophy refers to the wasting away of the deltoid muscle without the typical symptoms of pain or obvious disability. This condition is often caused by axillary nerve injury or compression, particularly in overhead sports like volleyball where repetitive shoulder movements are common. Unlike more obvious injuries, silent deltoid atrophy may go unnoticed by athletes because it ...