Shoulder Pain Slowing You Down? You’re Not Alone.
Shoulder pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints we see in our chiropractic office. Whether it’s from an old sports injury, poor posture at your desk, or even just sleeping the wrong way, shoulder discomfort can severely limit your daily activities — from reaching into a cupboard to putting on a jacket.
But here’s the good news: Chiropractic care can provide natural, non-invasive relief.
What Causes Shoulder Pain?
The shoulder is one of the most mobile — and complex — joints in the body. The shoulder is formed by the connection of the upper arm, or humerus, into the glenoid fossa of the scapular, or shoulder blade. Unlike the robust ball and socket joint of the hip, the shoulder joint is much more shallow, allowing for the more complex range of motion it requires. The tradeoff is that the shoulder relies heavily on the complex arrangement of muscles, tendons, and ligaments that surround it for its stability. This increased flexibility makes it vulnerable to a wide range of problems. In fact, about 18 million Americans per year are affected by shoulder pain according to a 2019 study. Common causes of shoulder pain include:
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Tendonitis or bursitis
- Shoulder impingement
- Referred pain from the neck or upper back
- Dislocations or instability
- Poor posture or muscle imbalance
How Chiropractors Approach Shoulder Pain
At Sturges Chiropractic & Sports Medicine, we don’t just treat the symptoms of shoulder pain — we address the root cause. We take a holistic approach, evaluating not only the shoulder itself but also surrounding structures like the neck, thoracic spine, and scapula (shoulder blade).
Here’s what an evaluation may include:
✅ Postural analysis
✅ Range of motion testing
✅ Joint palpation
✅ Muscle strength and balance assessment
✅ Diagnostic imaging (if needed)
Chiropractic Treatments for Shoulder Pain
Treatment is tailored to your specific condition, but may include:
- Chiropractic Adjustments: If the shoulder joint or surrounding spinal areas are misaligned, gentle adjustments can restore proper function and reduce nerve irritation.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Techniques such as Graston Technique® can break up scar tissue and reduce muscle tension.
- Rehabilitation Exercises: Strengthening weak muscles and stretching tight ones helps rebalance the shoulder for long-term relief and injury prevention.
- Postural Correction: We’ll help you fix daily habits (like slouching at your desk or carrying bags on one side) that may be contributing to your pain.
When to Seek Help
If your shoulder pain:
- Has lasted more than a few days
- Limits your range of motion
- Is interfering with sleep
- Feels sharp or radiates down your arm
…it’s time to get it checked out. Early intervention can prevent chronic issues and help you heal faster.
Final Thoughts: Get Back to What You Love
Shoulder pain can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to become your “new normal.” Sturges Chiropractic & Sports Medicine offers a safe, drug-free approach to healing and long-term function. If you’re tired of living with discomfort, let’s get to the root of the issue — and get you back to doing what you love.