Shoulder Pain

Because we use our shoulders so often throughout the day and because it is such a highly moveable joint, it’s no wonder it is susceptible to injury and conditions like tendinitis, bursitis, shoulder impingement, frozen shoulder, and arthritis. The shoulder is basically a ball and socket, muscles, tendons, ligaments, a joint capsule, and a labrum.

The main shoulder muscles making up the rotator cuff are the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis, and teres minor muscles. These muscles are the most commonly involved shoulder muscles when it comes to injury, whether from repetitive use, lifting, sports, overhead activities, or even sitting with poor posture at a computer for extended periods.

Some shoulder pain may be referred pain from pinched or irritated nerves in the neck or upper back caused by cervical disc issues, bone spurs, arthritis, rib strains, and spinal misalignments (subluxations). The nerves that originate in this area exit the spine between each vertebra and make up what is called the brachial plexus. These are the nerves that control the shoulder all the way down to the fingers. As they say, it’s all connected. Pain, tingling, numbness, radiculopathy, decreased range of motion, or even loss of grip strength can result.

Conservative chiropractic adjustments to the spine and shoulder may help restore balance and proper motion to the supporting muscles. We can help assess what options you may need through examination. If the condition is too severe or does not respond to care, a referral to an orthopedic specialist, further testing, and other options are discussed. Never wait until the problem becomes a more severe condition down the road. Call or schedule an appointment with us today.