Tag Archive for: cervical spine

Is Shoulder Pain “Impinging” on Your Lifestyle?

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If you’ve ever had pain in your shoulders when you try to raise your arms overhead, pull off a sweatshirt, grab a gallon of milk from the fridge, or place grocery bags on the counter, you were likely dealing with shoulder “impingement syndrome…” otherwise known as “rotator cuff impingement” or “rotator cuff tendonitis.”

They call it “impingement” because your rotator cuff tendons get pinched between the round head of your shoulder bone and a hook-shaped bone in your shoulder blade called the acromion.

The pinching tends to happens every time you raise your arm above ninety degrees. After a while, the pinching eventually irritates your tendon, resulting in pain and inflammation. These symptoms are exacerbated and pronounced with any arm movements above shoulder height. Most of the time, the root cause of this problem has been there for a long time, but it’s only just now manifesting itself as pain — and this so-called “impingement syndrome.”

So what causes your rotator cuff tendon to get pinched or impinged in the first place?

Most of the time, the answer is POSTURE.

Financial Betting Sites UK 2025: Betzella’s Best Options for Financial Markets

In the ever-evolving world of finance, where markets fluctuate with the blink of an eye, the allure of financial betting has captured the imagination of thrill-seekers and savvy investors alike. As we approach 2025, the United Kingdom stands at the forefront of this exhilarating realm, offering a plethora of online platforms that cater to those seeking a unique blend of risk and reward. But how do you navigate this intricate landscape and uncover the best financial betting sites tailored to your needs?

Enter Betzella, a trusted authority in the realm of online betting, poised to unveil a curated selection of the finest financial betting sites in the UK for 2025. With a meticulous eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Betzella’s experts have scoured the digital landscape, meticulously evaluating each platform’s offerings, security measures, and user experience. From user-friendly interfaces to cutting-edge trading tools and unparalleled market coverage, this comprehensive guide promises to equip you with the knowledge and resources necessary to make informed decisions and potentially unlock lucrative opportunities within the financial markets.

Regulatory Landscape: Navigating the Legal Framework

As the financial markets continue to evolve and captivate investors worldwide, the demand for reliable and user-friendly financial betting sites UK is on the rise. In 2025, Betzella emerges as a trusted platform, offering a comprehensive range of options tailored to the needs of discerning traders and enthusiasts alike.

One of the standout features of Betzella’s financial betting sites UK is the diverse range of markets available. From traditional stocks and currencies to emerging sectors like cryptocurrencies and commodities, traders can explore a wealth of opportunities. The platform’s intuitive interface and real-time data feeds ensure that users stay informed and make informed decisions.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, Betzella’s financial betting sites UK offer a seamless integration with virtual trading simulators. These cutting-edge tools allow traders to hone their skills, test strategies, and gain invaluable experience without risking real capital. Additionally, educational resources and expert analysis are readily available, empowering users to navigate the intricate world of financial markets with confidence.

Betzella’s commitment to security, transparency, and customer satisfaction sets it apart from competitors. With robust encryption protocols, stringent regulatory compliance, and responsive customer support, traders can engage in financial betting sites UK with peace of mind. As the industry continues to evolve, Betzella remains dedicated to staying at the forefront, introducing innovative features and adapting to emerging trends, solidifying its position as a premier destination for financial market enthusiasts in the UK and beyond.

Emerging Trends: Innovative Financial Betting Platforms

As we approach 2025, the financial betting landscape in the UK is poised for exciting developments. Betzella, a leading authority in the industry, has meticulously evaluated the top options for those seeking to engage in financial market betting. With a keen eye for reliability, user experience, and competitive odds, Betzella’s recommendations provide a comprehensive guide for both seasoned bettors and newcomers alike.

One standout platform that has consistently impressed is [Platform A]. Renowned for its user-friendly interface and extensive range of financial instruments, [Platform A] offers a seamless betting experience. From traditional stocks and indices to emerging cryptocurrencies, bettors can navigate the markets with confidence, backed by real-time data and insightful analysis tools. Additionally, [Platform A]’s robust mobile app ensures that traders can stay connected and capitalize on opportunities wherever they are.

For those seeking a more personalized approach, [Platform B] has garnered praise for its exceptional customer support and tailored betting solutions. With a team of experienced financial analysts on hand, bettors can access in-depth market insights and receive personalized recommendations based on their risk profile and investment goals. [Platform B] also boasts a diverse range of betting options, including spread betting, binary options, and contract for differences (CFDs), catering to various investment strategies and preferences.

Risk Management Strategies: Maximizing Returns, Minimizing Losses

As the financial markets continue to evolve and new opportunities arise, UK bettors are seeking reliable platforms to engage in financial betting. In 2025, Betzella stands as a trusted authority, offering a curated selection of the best financial betting sites tailored for the UK market. With a keen eye for security, user experience, and competitive odds, Betzella’s recommendations provide a gateway to the exciting world of financial market speculation.

Whether you’re a seasoned trader or a newcomer to financial betting, Betzella’s top picks cater to a diverse range of preferences and risk appetites. From user-friendly platforms with intuitive interfaces to advanced trading tools and in-depth market analysis, these sites empower bettors to make informed decisions. With a commitment to transparency and responsible gambling practices, Betzella ensures that UK bettors can navigate the financial markets with confidence, seizing opportunities while managing risks effectively.

User Experience: Evaluating Platform Features and Usability

As the financial markets continue to evolve, the demand for reliable and user-friendly betting sites in the UK is on the rise. In 2025, Betzella stands out as a leading platform offering a diverse range of options for those seeking to engage in financial betting. With a commitment to transparency, security, and cutting-edge technology, Betzella provides a seamless experience for both seasoned traders and newcomers alike.

One of the key strengths of Betzella is its comprehensive selection of financial markets, including stocks, currencies, commodities, and indices. Whether you’re interested in trading major global equities or exploring the intricacies of cryptocurrency markets, Betzella offers a wide array of opportunities. Additionally, the platform boasts a user-friendly interface, making it easy to navigate and execute trades with confidence. Betzella’s commitment to providing educational resources and expert analysis further empowers users to make informed decisions, ensuring a rewarding and engaging betting experience.

As the financial markets continue to evolve and new opportunities arise, it’s essential to stay informed and choose a reliable betting platform. Betzella’s comprehensive guide to the best financial betting sites in the UK for 2025 provides valuable insights and expert recommendations to help you navigate the ever-changing landscape. Whether you’re an experienced trader or just starting your journey, our carefully curated list of top-rated platforms offers a range of options to suit your preferences and investment goals. Stay ahead of the curve and make informed decisions with Betzella as your trusted companion in the exciting world of financial betting.

If your upper back is stiff, curved, and lacks adequate mobility, it’s going to impact how your shoulder blades move and position themselves. With a stiff and curved upper back, your shoulder blades will respond by moving out and up. This scenario makes that hook-like bone (the acromion) sit more forward and more down than it should. When this happens, there isn’t enough room for your tendon when you lift your arms above shoulder height. The bony surfaces above and below your tendon create friction, and this eventually turns into pain and inflammation.

The tempting and easy “fix” is to get a cortisone shot or attack the inflammation more conservatively with ice and topical anti-inflammatory agents.

But what you need to understand is that in most cases, “impingement syndrome” is actually the SYMPTOM. The root cause is usually coming from immobility and poor movement patterns in the upper back or neck. If you really want to get rid of your shoulder pain, get back to lifting and carrying things without any worry, and have full and free mobility of your arms, it’s essential that you identify and address the root cause and not just the symptoms. Since there is an 80% chance your shoulder pain is a mechanical or movement problem — the best people to examine and address this FIRST are movement experts like us.

So moral of the story… next time you go to the doctor complaining of shoulder pain and you hear the words “impingement syndrome” or “rotator cuff tendonitis” — don’t assume you need a cortisone shot or surgery to fix it.

Neither of these solutions will likely give you the long-term solution you’re looking for. The very last thing you want to do is get some kind of procedure or surgery that either masks the pain or corrects the wrong problem. You want to do everything possible to preserve the integrity of your tendon, and the best way to do that is by optimizing mobility and using natural movement and strength training prescribed by movement experts.

Interested in seeing if physical therapy could resolve your shoulder pain? Try a FREE Discovery Session on us. This is a chance for you to speak with one of our specialists, tell us everything that’s been going on with you, and determine for yourself if we’re the best people to help you. It’s a completely free, no-obligation appointment that will give you all the information you need to make the BEST decision for YOUR health – whether that’s working with us or not!

Neck stretches

Neck Pain During Crunches? Here’s Why & How to Avoid it

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Abdominal crunches are one of the most popular “ab exercises” around. It’s a movement that emphasizes upper abdominal strength. You start by lying on your back, typically with your hands behind your head and knees bent. You then lift your head and chest off the floor, “crunching” your upper body into a C-shaped curve.

Over the years, many “experts” have dismissed this exercise, claiming it’s ineffective for core strengthening. While I agree that it shouldn’t be the ONLY core exercise you do — the crunch does have its place. I work on this a lot with my private clients, because it’s a functional move that when done correctly, will help you sit up from the floor with more ease and with less risk of injury. And of course you see variations on this movement all the time in Pilates, which is a key part of our practice and our efforts to help people recover from back pain.

I often hear that people don’t like crunches because they’re uncomfortable or hurt your neck. But when you’re doing a crunch, you want to make sure you’re feeling it in your abs… NOT in your our neck. Here are the biggest problems I see with crunches and how to tell if it’s a technique problem or a neck problem:

You’re not actually using your abs

This sounds pretty obvious, right? But a lot of people have trouble figuring this out. During our Pilates 101 class this week, one woman experiencing neck pain appeared to be doing the move correctly — but she couldn’t feel it in her abs, only in her neck.

It’s because she was using her neck and chest muscles to curl her upper body into the crunch instead of initiating the move from her belly (abs). My tips to correct this were to pull her lower belly in toward her spine and the front of her ribs down toward her belly button. Then, keeping this shape locked in, use her breath (exhale) to help her initiate and start the curl from her abs.

Sometimes people don’t have the abdominal strength yet to perform a crunch from lying flat. If that’s the case, you won’t be able to do this correctly no matter how well you follow my cues. If you think that’s your problem, place a small pillow under the back of your head. This gives you a head start into the curl. Once your abdominals get stronger, you can try doing the crunch with your head starting from the floor again.

Your neck is in the wrong position

When you’re doing a crunch, you want your neck to be slightly curled (chin toward chest). Most people either curl their neck too much, or not enough. If your chin is touching your chest, you’re curled too much. And if you feel your chin and neck jutting forward toward the ceiling, you’re not curled enough. Either of these positions could lead to neck problems down the line if not corrected.

The ideal position for your neck is to begin with a slight nod of the chin (like you’re nodding “yes”) and then keep it there. The rest of the curling motion will come from contracting your trunk and abs. As you curl up, I recommend keeping your eyes focused on your belly and keeping a tennis ball’s distance between your chin and your chest.

Sometimes your hand and arm position can be what causes your neck to be in the wrong place. If your hands are behind your head, be sure you’re not using them to pull your neck forward. Your head should be gently pressing into your hands and your elbows should be at a 45 degree angle from your body. Your abs do the rest.

You have an underlying neck problem

In our practice, we specialize in neck and back pain. When you’ve got an underlying neck problem, doing crunches isn’t a good idea until the underlying problem is resolved.

Let’s say you have a small bulging disc in your neck that you weren’t aware of or that you thought was fixed. The curled position of your neck during a crunch can exacerbate this problem, even if you are using your abs correctly and following every tip I just mentioned above.

Some clues that you might have an underlying neck problem could be pain that shoots into your shoulder blade or numbness and tingling down your arm. You might experience these symptoms during the movement, or even up to several hours after.

Either way, symptoms like this could be a sign that there is more to your neck pain than simply incorrect crunch-technique or weakness in your abs.

If this is happening, it’s a good idea to get it checked out by a movement/mechanical specialist like the physical therapists in our practice. The good news is that we can help your neck feel better even if you do have a problem like bulging discs — and you can get back to doing crunches again without any neck pain.

You can also check out our FREE guide to neck and shoulder pain right here!

It comes right to your email inbox and explores seven easy ways (plus a bonus section!) that are PROVEN to help you ease neck and shoulder pain quickly – without pain medication, procedures, or surgery.

If you have any additional questions or want a more personalized assessment, sign up for a FREE Discovery Session with us! It’s a quick, no-obligations opportunity for you to see if working with us could be the best decision for your health.

Carrie working on a client's shoulder

Shoulder Pain not Going Away? This could be why…

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Whether it’s shoulder pain, neck pain, back pain, or knee pain that you’re dealing with — if you have a nagging pain or injury that just won’t go away no matter what you try, it’s a clue that you’re missing something.

We see this ALL the time in our office with shoulders.

Folks just like you come to us wondering why their shoulder still hurts after trying ice, heat, rest, physical therapy, massage, and every possible shoulder exercise you could imagine.

The pain either goes away temporarily, or sometimes it gets WORSE!

When it comes to shoulder pain, it’s critical that you know for certain if the pain is actually coming from your shoulder, or somewhere else. If not, you risk trying to fix the wrong problem… and that explains EXACTLY why your shoulder pain isn’t going away.

So… if your shoulder pain isn’t caused by your shoulder — where is it coming from?

The most common culprit is actually your NECK. Below are a few key signs to help you figure out if that’s the case…

(PS – we’re doing an online workshop on this topic in just a few weeks.)

Where is your pain?

When your pain is coming from your shoulder, the pain will always be localized to your shoulder alone. True shoulder pain is felt directly in front of your shoulder, directly on top, or in a more involved shoulder problem (like a rotator cuff injury) you might feel some achiness down the side of your arm… but it will never go below your elbow.

If the pain goes past your elbow and into your forearm or hand, or radiates above your shoulder into your neck (the upper trap area), or if you feel it deep inside of your shoulder blade in your mid-back, odds are pretty good that you’re dealing with a neck problem and not just a shoulder problem. This could be the reason why your shoulder pain isn’t going away.

Do your symptoms involve numbness, tingling or burning?

These are signs of nerve compression or irritation. If that’s happening, it’s likely coming from your neck – and could be due to a bulging disc or a restricted/faulty movement pattern that is irritating nerve roots in your neck. An isolated shoulder problem typically does NOT involve nerve root compression or irritation. This is much more common in a problem related to your neck, and if that’s what’s happening, you will feel symptoms into your shoulder, shoulder blade, or even down into your arm. What’s particularly misleading is that it’s entirely possible to feel all these nerve symptoms and not actually feel anything localized to your neck. This is a big reason why shoulder pain caused by a neck issue gets missed by so many health practitioners.

Have you lost mobility or range of motion?

Lack of mobility and stiffness are common symptoms associated with a rotator cuff injury or the dreaded “frozen shoulder.” If your neck moves well and is pain free, but your shoulder is stiff and immobile, odds are good that the problem is actually in your shoulder and you just haven’t found the right treatment approach yet. BUT… if you have a stiff and painful neck, and you lack mobility in your shoulder, then it’s absolutely imperative that you investigate your neck. If your care provider only focuses on stretching and improving your shoulder mobility, and never bothers to look at your neck, it’s possible you could be missing a key component to full recovery… and that’s why your shoulder pain keeps coming back.

 

sitting

Persistent neck pain and tired of not getting answers?

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Have you been dealing with annoying, on and off neck pain for a while now? Have you tried treating shoulder pain with no real results? Are you frustrated with empty answers?

Or maybe you know someone else who is dealing with this?

Over 30% of people report they have neck pain. Of those, 50% will continue to have problems without any real answers or solutions.

When clients come to us with neck pain, often they’ve already tried several approaches without success. But the real issue I see is that everyone they’ve seen up to that point has failed to give them a full and accurate diagnosis.

Without an accurate diagnosis, treatment fails.

It’s not surprising. The true cause (or causes) of neck pain can be easily missed by many, and is sometimes difficult to diagnose.

Why?

There are a few reasons…

  1. The anatomy of your neck, unlike the rest of your spine, is fairly intricate. Not only does this require special care and accuracy when it comes to examining your neck, it makes it easy for someone who is not expertly trained to miss things.
  2. Shoulder pain is very often confused with neck pain. What I mean is, it’s possible to only feel pain in your shoulder, but the real source of the problem is your neck. If you’ve ever been treated for a “shoulder problem” and it hasn’t gotten any better (or maybe it got worse!), there’s a good chance you were misdiagnosed.
  3. Your core strength has a lot to do with how well your neck functions. When it comes to neck pain – or any problem for that matter – a holistic approach is always best and the most thorough. Sometimes your neck pain can be a “symptom” of a root cause somewhere else. Many times I’ve seen people come in having suffered from neck pain for years – and once we properly strengthen their core or other areas of their body – their neck pain starts to finally improve.

These are just a few of the most common reasons I’ve seen, over the years, of why the true source of your neck pain can get missed. And guess what… if the true cause of your pain is missed… then you won’t get consistent relief or a full recovery.

Check out our free neck report here or request a time to speak with one of our specialists here.