Dealing with Shoulder Tendonitis After a Decade of Roller Derby
Hello everyone! I’m reaching out for some guidance as I've been dealing with a medical issue for the past year. I have been suffering from persistent tendonitis in both of my shoulders, and my experience with it has been quite challenging. My practitioner in traditional Chinese medicine suggests that my first rib might be misaligned, and this could be contributing significantly to my discomfort. Having played Roller Derby for ten years—starting from the age of 17—I’ve often used my hips and shoulders aggressively, which makes me suspect that the repeated impact has caused some shifting in my body. Each week, my doctor performs adjustments, but unfortunately, the pain in my first rib has not completely subsided, and it seems I have yet to achieve full recovery. Could anyone advise me on the type of specialist I should consult for further assessment? Also, should I aim to have a more definitive correction, or is it better to continue with the gradual adjustments I’ve been receiving? Thank you very much for your insights! 🙏🙏
Answers (1)
7/14/2025, 7:01:55 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re experiencing significant discomfort from shoulder tendonitis, especially considering your history with Roller Derby. Finding the right approach to manage this pain is crucial for your recovery.
Key Points:
- Persistent shoulder tendonitis can stem from repetitive strain and possible structural issues, such as rib misalignment.
- It’s essential to consult with the appropriate specialists for comprehensive assessment and treatment.
Explanation: Tendonitis in the shoulders often results from repetitive motions, which fits your history in Roller Derby. The suggestion from your practitioner regarding rib misalignment could be valid since rib positioning can affect shoulder mechanics. Gradual adjustments can help, but if there's no improvement, exploring further options is wise.
Next Steps:
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Consult a Sports Medicine Specialist: They can provide targeted assessments of your shoulders and rib alignment, focusing on sports-related injuries. They may also suggest imaging (like an X-ray or MRI) if necessary.
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Physical Therapy Evaluation: A physical therapist can develop a tailored rehabilitation program that strengthens surrounding muscles, improves flexibility, and addresses any biomechanical issues.
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Gradual Adjustment with Monitoring: If you find relief from the adjustments currently being performed, continue with them while working alongside a sports medicine clinician and physical therapist.
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Incorporate Rest and Modification: While continuing your activities, consider modifying movements that aggravate your shoulder pain, and include rest days to prevent further strain on your tendons.
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Self-Care Practices: Consider applying ice to reduce inflammation, practicing gentle range-of-motion exercises, and engaging in activities that do not affect your shoulder pain.
Keeping track of your symptoms and any changes can help you communicate effectively with your healthcare team. This collaboration can lead to a structured plan addressing both pain relief and functional recovery. Let me know if you have any further questions or need additional information!
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