Shoulder and Neck Pain

Recently, during a gathering of former colleagues (the author has been in the fitness and wellness industry for 20 years), the topic frequently revolved around a common issue in teaching - shoulder imbalance. Compared to back pain, discomfort caused by neck and shoulder issues is the second most prevalent. At the gathering, a newly graduated coach distressedly asked, 'Apart from stretching and massages, what other methods can eliminate the symptoms caused by shoulder imbalance?' This is because they often face complaints from clients about its effectiveness. In fact, such situations are not uncommon. There is usually no 'alignment' issue to provide the most appropriate prescription, making it difficult to cure.

First Rib of the Sternoclavicular Joint

That is, a narrow phenomenon occurred with the first pair of ribs. In the cases the author has dealt with, most issues arise from this situation. You may not be able to relate the collarbone to theshoulder.In fact, the referenced position is at the first row of ribs, with only a space the size of a five-cent coin between it and the collarbone, which allows several different nerves, blood vessels, and so on to pass through. One of these, the "subclavian artery," is relatively large in size, making it more susceptible to compression.

Many times, the above situation can explain why simple methods like stretching or massage generally do not achieve a soothing effect. The suspected tension in the neck and shoulders, which arises from not being resolved in a timely manner, leads to a delay in becoming chronic pain. This is because the true cause is often hidden behind.

After a series of detailed examinations, most cases seeking help are related to subclavian artery compression symptoms. 

Preliminary Test for Shoulder Height Difference

Taking action early often proves to be more effective than treatment later on. In fact, this can be done through some self-assessment methods. This time,we introducean action named as 'Slanting Bag Test' by the author. In addition to being able to more easily eliminate the root cause of the affected area, it also helps alleviate initial symptoms instantly. Moreover, this action belongs to the lowest level of risk assessment, making it absolutely safe and suitable for self-testing at home.

Slanting Bag Test

Testing tool: Prepare a large bath towel

Procedure:

• Wrap the ends of the towel to form a shape similar to a diagonal strap; (as shown in the illustration);

• Place the towel loop on your shoulder (over the affected area), and use the hand away from the affected area to grip both ends of the towel tightly.

• Apply force while coordinating with breathing during the process;
  

Note: Repeat the above actions several times, ensuring an even distribution of force, focusing on the entire process without pursuing intense pulling.

Assessment: 

• Positive - If there is relief during the process, then the discomfort in the shoulders and neck is caused by an imbalance in the sternoclavicular and rib area.
• Negative - If the tense area does not receive relief after the process is completed, it is due to imbalance in other areas.

The subclavian artery is located between the sternum and the first pair of ribs, running through the middle. When compressed, as the name suggests, the normal blood supply to that area is affected, and more severe symptoms may include numbness in the shoulder and arm. If mistakenly thought to be just general shoulder or neck muscle tension, one could miss the opportunity for a complete treatment.

If you repeat the above test steps (no more than five times) and still cannot grasp the feeling you should have, please do not be discouraged. You contact us for health consultation on shoulder and neck pain.