Shoulder Conditions
Shoulder conditions are a common struggle for Veterans, often arising from the physical and mental demands of military service—whether in training, operational roles, or daily duties. These issues can cause persistent pain, reduced mobility, and difficulty with everyday tasks, impacting your life after service. At Echelon Wellness, we offer specialized care tailored to Veterans to address these service-related shoulder challenges.
Symptoms of Shoulder Issues
Shoulder problems linked to military service can appear as:
- Persistent or sharp pain in the shoulder or upper arms.
- Stiffness or restricted motion due to extended periods in fixed positions during drills or high-stress duties.
- Weakness or instability in the shoulder joint after years of repetitive arm use in training or maintenance roles.
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sensations from wear tied to service-related strain or tension.
- Nighttime discomfort or pain flare-ups triggered by past military activities and stress.
Common Shoulder Conditions We Treat
According to VAC, the most common Shoulder conditions are:
Rotator Cuff
Tears or inflammation in the group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder, often causing pain and weakness during arm movements.
Shoulder Impingement
Occurs when tendons or bursa in the shoulder are pinched during movement, leading to discomfort and restricted motion.
Osteoarthritis
Wear and tear of the shoulder joint cartilage, resulting in stiffness, swelling, and chronic pain.
How Shoulder Issues Develop
Shoulder problems can arise due to a variety of factors:
Overuse: Repetitive motions, such as lifting or reaching, strain the shoulder over time.
Injuries or Trauma: Sudden impacts, falls, or overextension can damage the joint.
Posture: Prolonged slouching or improper positioning stresses the shoulder.
Wear Over Time: Gradual breakdown of joints and tissues occurs with age or repeated use.
These factors can contribute to the development of shoulder conditions, making targeted care essential for relief.
For military veterans, these issues are often compounded by the physical demands and unique challenges of service:
Training Regimens: Rigorous exercises, from pack marches to equipment drills, place ongoing stress on the shoulder.
Equipment Handling: Repeatedly moving heavy items—like radios, tools, or supplies—leads to impingement or rotator cuff wear.
High-Stress Environments: The constant pressure of military life, even in non-combat roles, causes muscle tension and exacerbates shoulder strain, hastening wear or injury.
These service-related physical and stress-induced factors highlight the need for Veteran-focused care.
Treatment Options for Shoulder Issues
According to VAC, if you have a Shoulder condition, you are entitled to the following services:
