Shoulder pain can be one of the most limiting and frustrating conditions, significantly affecting your ability to perform basic activities like reaching overhead, lifting objects, or even getting dressed. The shoulder joint is inherently complex, consisting of multiple bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments that work together to provide the remarkable range of motion your arm requires. This complexity, while allowing for extensive movement, also makes the shoulder vulnerable to various injuries and dysfunction.

Shoulder pain can result from numerous causes including acute injuries, repetitive overuse, or gradual wear and tear. Poor posture, particularly forward head posture and rounded shoulders from prolonged computer use, places excessive stress on the shoulder structures and can lead to chronic pain. Common conditions include rotator cuff injuries, where the muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder become torn or inflamed, and tendonitis, which involves inflammation of the tendons due to repetitive motions or overuse.

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is another painful condition characterized by progressive stiffness and severe limitation of shoulder movement. This condition often develops gradually and can be particularly debilitating, making it difficult to perform routine tasks and significantly impacting sleep quality when lying on the affected side.

The interconnected nature of the shoulder with the neck, upper back, and ribcage means that dysfunction in these areas can contribute to shoulder pain. Spinal misalignments, particularly in the cervical and thoracic regions, can alter the biomechanics of shoulder movement and contribute to pain and dysfunction. Additionally, nerve compression in the neck can cause referred pain that manifests in the shoulder region.

Left untreated, shoulder pain often becomes chronic and more difficult to resolve. Many people develop compensatory movement patterns that place additional stress on other joints and muscles, potentially leading to problems in the neck, opposite shoulder, or lower back. The fear of pain can also lead to decreased activity levels, resulting in muscle weakness and further joint stiffness.

Our comprehensive approach to shoulder pain begins with a thorough evaluation to identify the specific structures involved and any contributing factors from the spine or posture. Chiropractic care works to restore proper joint alignment in both the shoulder and related spinal regions, helping to reduce inflammation and improve overall biomechanics through targeted adjustments and soft tissue therapy.

Combined with rehabilitation exercises designed to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles and improve flexibility, our treatments aim to restore full shoulder function and prevent future injuries. We tailor each care plan to address your unique needs and activity goals for the best possible outcomes.