shoulder bursitis/tendonitis

[mad hatter]

my mom is a postal worker and is constantly overusing her shoulder reaching across her car seat to get the mail to be delivered...
I've always done trigger point work with her which seems to give her some relief, but I don't get to work with her often because of distance. This week she could hardly lift her arm, then when she did lift it above her head, she had a hard time bringing it back down. So she went to the dr who told her she has bursitis and tendonitis and to put HEAT on it. :? he also gave her a prescription (I don't know of what yet, but she didn't think it was an anti-inflammatory)
anyway, I don't have much experience with bursitis, but remember reading that trigger points can mimic it and wonder if this isn't the case since the massage I have given her in the past has always helped. I would think icing instead of heat would be the way to go...? but not according to the dr!

I was just wondering what you wise folks think and see what suggestions you might have. TIA you guys are the greatest!

 

[UltraRobbie]

I hate hearing drs say, if it hurts put heat on it, because I then have to tread lightly, and thoroughly explain why I am contradicting them, not that I wouldn't anyways, but you get my point.

I would say put ice, if it is bursitis, or tendonitis, itis is inflammation, and ice reduces inflammation, swelling, heat, and slows nerve conduction so you don't feel the pain as much.

Heat increases circulation, brings more blood and fluid to the area, which can increase swelling and inflammation, thereby increasing the pressure, and possibly more pain.

That is what I tell my clients when they ask about it, it is what makes sense to me based on my own research, and own inuries.

Not to mention that we were told in school that during the acute phase of healing you use cold, sub acute contrast therapy, and chronic heat (a little simplistic and over generalizing at times, but the basis is sound)

 

[heybulldog]

I would say put ice, if it is bursitis, or tendonitis, itis is inflammation, and ice reduces inflammation, swelling, heat, and slows nerve conduction so you don't feel the pain as much.

:iagree:

I would recommend Ice, rest and gentle stretching.

Angie

 

[Alps]

shoulder bursitis/tendonitis

I don't have much experience with bursitis, but remember reading that trigger points can mimic it and wonder if this isn't the case since the massage I have given her in the past has always helped.

Definitely, trigger points can mimic bursitis. I've seen that a lot in my practice. Is there a good MT near where your Mom lives? I'd also suggest buying the Trigger Point Therapy Workbook by Clair Davies. Copy the appropriate pages for your Mom and show her how she can treat her own trigger points. (That book is written specifically for clients to learn how to treat themselves.) It would be a good habit for her to get into -- treating her own trigger points every day, when she gets home from work. You could buy her a theracane, too, to make it a little easier. A "Care Package for Mom" to encourage her to take good care of herself!

 

[Evehr]

thanks guys for the ideas! I am visiting my folks today and reviewing to you from the land of DIAL-UP!! (UGH!!)
So, quick update for you: I did trigger point work on supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and scalenes. I also did some soft tissue release on the rhomboids.
her pain was completely eliminated and full range of motion restored!
needless to say, she is pretty excited. I have brought a thera-cane to leave with her along with some homework (great idea Blisss!) and I'm going to be making copies of the trigger points.
I think the relief it has given her will definately inspire her to keep up with her homework, and I'm going to make it a point to work with her every time I see her.
Thanks again for your help!

 

[LoScMa]

Your mother's lucky to have you! t023