Strong, Stable, and Pain-Free Shoulders

Your shoulder is the most mobile joint in your body, and that flexibility is precisely why shoulder pain can be so disruptive. When your shoulder isn’t working correctly, it can affect everything from desk work and lifting groceries to exercising, sleeping, and even simple daily movements.

Shoulder pain can range from a mild, nagging ache to sharp, limiting discomfort. It may occur suddenly after an injury or develop gradually due to posture, repetitive strain, or compensatory movement patterns. No matter how it starts, the key to long-term relief is identifying and treating the cause of the pain, not just masking the symptoms.

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

Shoulder discomfort is often linked to one or more of the following issues:

• Tendon inflammation or tears (such as bursitis or tendinitis)

• Joint instability (including separation or dislocation)

• Referred pain from the neck or upper back

• Arthritis or joint degeneration

• Fractures or traumatic injuries

Because the shoulder works closely with the neck, upper back, and rib cage, pain in this area often involves more than just the shoulder itself.

Why Proper Assessment Matters

A thorough assessment is essential to effective care. This includes reviewing your medical history, past injuries, work habits, posture, and daily activities. In some cases, imaging such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI may be recommended to rule out more serious concerns and guide appropriate treatment.

The good news? Research shows that nearly 90% of people with shoulder pain do not require surgery. Most cases respond well to conservative, non-invasive care.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

• Depending on the cause of your pain, treatment may include:

• Activity modification and targeted rest

• Ice or compression to reduce inflammation

• Therapeutic ultrasound

• Cold laser therapy

• Stretching and strengthening exercises

• Chiropractic adjustments to the shoulder, spine, and surrounding joints

Chiropractic care focuses on restoring proper joint movement and alignment. When pain is present, your body often compensates by moving differently, which can lead to secondary issues in the neck, back, or opposite shoulder. Addressing these patterns helps support healing and prevents future flare-ups.

A Note on Pain Medication

While anti-inflammatory medications may provide temporary relief, they can sometimes mask pain signals that are meant to protect you. Continuing to push through pain without addressing the underlying cause may increase the risk of further injury.

If shoulder pain is limiting your comfort, mobility, or sleep, early care can make a meaningful difference. To learn how chiropractic care may help, contact Colasanti Chiropractic at 519-258-8544.