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The infraspinatus muscle, part of the rotator cuff in your shoulder, plays a critical role in stabilizing and moving the shoulder joint. Pain in this area can significantly impact daily activities, from lifting objects to simply reaching overhead. As a chiropractor in Cardiff, we often see patients experiencing discomfort in this region, and understanding the condition is key to effective treatment and relief.
This comprehensive guide explores the causes, signs, symptoms, and treatment options for infraspinatus pain, ensuring you have the information you need to address the issue and know when to seek professional care.
What Is the Infraspinatus Muscle?
The infraspinatus is one of the four muscles that make up the rotator cuff of the shoulder. Located on the back of the shoulder blade (scapula), it attaches to the upper arm bone (humerus). Its primary function is to help rotate the arm externally and stabilize the shoulder joint during movement.
Common Causes of Infraspinatus Pain
1. Overuse and Repetitive Strain
Activities requiring repetitive shoulder movement, such as throwing sports, swimming, or typing, can overwork the infraspinatus. Another cause I see regularly is people putting too much weight on their computer mouse. Hours of using this muscle can cause it to become over activated and painful.
Desk workers with poor posture are prone to developing strain in this area.
2. Trauma or Injury
A fall, car accident, or sports injury can damage the infraspinatus, leading to acute pain.
Shoulder dislocations or fractures can also involve this muscle.
3. Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy or Tears
Wear and tear over time can lead to degeneration or tears in the tendon attached to the infraspinatus. Full tear are rare and normal trauma related.
4. Myofascial Trigger Points
Knots or tight bands within the muscle fibers can cause localized pain or referred pain to the shoulder and arm. Often patients can feel as though the arm feels weaker or not connected anymore.
5. Postural Imbalances
Slouched shoulders or a forward head posture can place undue stress on the infraspinatus, leading to chronic pain.
6. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
While not specific to the infraspinatus, frozen shoulder can lead to muscle stiffness and compensatory strain.
Signs and Symptoms of Infraspinatus Pain
Patients with infraspinatus pain may experience:
Dull, aching pain in the back of the shoulder but can also radiate through to the shoulder too.
Pain radiating down the arm to the elbow or hand, often mistaken for nerve pain. Often an overall active infraspinatus can be related to an issues called TOS (thoracic outlet syndrome)
Difficulty performing overhead movements or reaching behind the back.
Weakness in the arm, especially during external rotation.
Tenderness or tightness when pressing on the back of the shoulder.
Stiffness and reduced range of motion in the shoulder joint.
Clicking or popping sounds with shoulder movement (crepitus).
Who Is Most Affected?
Infraspinatus pain can affect a wide range of individuals, but some groups are more at risk:
1. Athletes:
Swimmers, tennis players, baseball pitchers, and weightlifters often experience rotator cuff strain due to repetitive shoulder movements.
2. Desk Workers:
Prolonged sitting with poor posture can lead to muscle imbalances affecting the infraspinatus.
3. Manual Laborers:
Jobs requiring heavy lifting or repetitive overhead activities can strain the shoulder muscles.
4. Older Adults:
Age-related degeneration increases the risk of rotator cuff injuries, including infraspinatus tears. Inactivity can lead to stiffness also.
5. Individuals with Poor Posture:
Forward-rounded shoulders or a sedentary lifestyle can predispose individuals to chronic shoulder pain.
Treatment Options for Infraspinatus Pain
1. Chiropractic Care
As chiropractors in Cardiff, we specialize in assessing and addressing musculoskeletal issues, including infraspinatus pain. We look at the frame as a whole, looking for tightness, weakness, limitations in movement, strength and health of the shoulder.
Treatments include:
Spinal and Shoulder Adjustments: Restoring proper alignment to relieve pressure on the shoulder joint.
Soft Tissue Therapy: Techniques like myofascial release to reduce muscle tightness and improve performance in mobility. Often, other muscles start compensatory patterns so many other muscles are also treated to restore balance.
Postural Correction: Identifying and correcting poor posture to reduce strain on the shoulder.
2. Physical Therapy
Strengthening and stretching exercises for the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles.
Specific exercises to restore range of motion and improve function.
3. Massage Therapy
Targeted massage can release trigger points and reduce tension in the infraspinatus.
4. Lifestyle Adjustments
Ergonomic adjustments to workstations to prevent overuse injuries.
Regular breaks during repetitive tasks, such as working for many hours at the computer.
5. Heat and Cold Therapy
Ice packs to reduce inflammation in acute cases.
Heat to relax tight muscles in chronic conditions.
6. Dry Needling or Acupuncture. Helps relieve pain and release trigger points within the muscle.
7. Anti-inflammatory Measures
Over-the-counter medications (under professional guidance).
Red Flags and When to Seek Immediate Care
While most cases of infraspinatus pain resolve with conservative care, certain symptoms warrant further investigation:
Severe or sudden pain after an injury, indicating a potential tear or dislocation.
Persistent weakness in the arm or shoulder.
Sudden umbness or tingling in the arm or hand, suggesting nerve involvement.
Swelling or redness or heat in the shoulder joint. And pain that keeps you awake most of the night along with night sweats.
No improvement despite consistent treatment over several weeks.
If you experience any of these red flags, consult a healthcare professional immediately. In some cases, imaging (X-rays, MRI diagnostic ultrasound) or referral to a specialist may be necessary.
Why Choose Chiropractic Care in Cardiff?
At our Cardiff chiropractic clinic, we take a holistic approach to treating infraspinatus pain. Our tailored treatments address the root cause of your discomfort, helping you return to your daily activities pain-free. With expert knowledge, and evidence based techniques, and a focus on patient education, we empower you to take control of your health.
Final Thoughts
Infraspinatus pain can be debilitating, but with the right care, relief is achievable. Whether you’re an athlete, a desk worker, or simply someone struggling with shoulder pain, our Cardiff chiropractic team is here to help.
Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back—contact us today to book a consultation and start your journey toward a healthier, pain-free life.
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