Arm and Shoulder Restrictions Part 1

Look first to the diaphragm, thorax and upper spine THEN move to the shoulder and arm (see Part 2 for that)

Oftentimes when seeing babies, at least one shoulder is restricted somehow.

This can happen from the uterine position or during the birth process. Shoulder dystocia is a common term for a mildly or moderately restricted shoulder. A severe brachial plexus injury is called Erb Palsy and results in paralysis of certain parts of the arm and hand. Those cases involve nerve root damage at the neck or permanent damage of nerve fibers at the thoracic outlet. For now, let us consider mild shoulder restrictions.

First, we should always assess what the neck is doing (or not doing) in relation to the upper spine, thorax and respiratory diaphragm. Once you get that osteopathic picture, you can relate how those areas tie into the shoulder and arm issue.

This video shows you the gentle assessment of a baby's upper body. He presented with left rotation of the head and neck, defaulting to that position often enough that he developed mild left occipito-parietal plagiocephaly (more on that in another blog). His parents hadn't noticed his condition but his aunt did. Fortunately, she suggested osteopathic treatment to the family.

Little did this boy's aunt realize, not only did her nephew need help for a neck restriction but also a restricted left shoulder and arm.