Understanding shoulder pain
Shoulder pain can impede even the simplest tasks—reaching for a cup, typing at your desk, or lifting shopping. As a highly mobile joint, your shoulder relies on bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments working in harmony. When one element falters, pain and stiffness may quickly follow. This guide aims to help you understand why your shoulder hurts, how chiropractic care could address the root cause, and what you can do at home to help stay pain-free.
Anatomy and common causes
Your shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint formed by the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and clavicle (collarbone). A thin cartilage layer, the labrum, deepens the socket, while a network of muscles (rotator cuff) and ligaments stabilise movement. Common pain triggers include:
- Rotator cuff strain: Tendon overuse or tears from repetitive lifting or sudden force.
- Impingement syndrome: When inflamed tendons pinch under the acromion (bony ridge) during arm elevation.
- Frozen shoulder (Adhesive capsulitis): Gradual loss of joint mobility, leading to severe stiffness.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled bursa that cushions shoulder structures.
- Referred pain: Neck or upper back restrictions sending pain signals into the shoulder.
Not all shoulder complaints are suitable for chiropractic care, and some shoulder issues can require surgery, so a comprehensive assessment is important, in order that we guide you in the right direction.
Shoulder pain does not always feel the same. You might notice:
- Aching or sharp pain: Localised in front, top, or back of the shoulder.
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion: Difficulty reaching overhead or behind your back.
- Weakness or instability: A sense that your shoulder might “give way” under load.
- Clicking or popping: Noises when moving the arm, may indicate joint or tendon issues.
- Radiating pain: Discomfort extending down the arm or into the neck.
Chiropractic approaches to shoulder pain
Chiropractic care goes beyond pain relief and aims to address underlying mechanical imbalances. Our methods may include:
- Joint manipulations: Gentle, targeted thrusts aim to reduce restriction in the shoulder, collarbone, or upper thoracic spine to restore proper biomechanics.
- Soft-tissue therapy: Targeted massage techniques aim to break up adhesions and improve circulation.
- Mobilisation exercises: Slow, controlled stretching of the joint, relaxing the shoulder and reducing stiffness.
- Rehabilitative strengthening: Customised exercises for rotator cuff muscles, scapular stabilisers, and core support—key to long-term shoulder stability.
- Postural correction: Ergonomic advice and posture programs to prevent recurring impingement or strain.
Self-care and prevention
Supporting your chiropractic treatment plan with shrewd self-care accelerates recovery:
- Ice therapy: Apply ice for 15 minutes after activity or treatment to reduce inflammation and promote faster recovery.
- Gentle stretching: Pendulum swings, wall slides, and cross-body arm stretches aim to improve flexibility.
- Ergonomic adjustments: Position your keyboard slightly below elbow height and keep your monitor at eye level to reduce shoulder elevation.
- Mindful movement: Use both arms equally—avoid favouring one side when lifting or carrying objects.
- Regular breaks: Pause every 30 minutes to roll your shoulders and shrug to relieve tension.
Get in touch
At Acomb Chiropractic Clinic, we are committed to helping you if we can. If you suspect that your discomfort may be related to shoulder joint issues, or if you are experiencing persistent neck or shoulder pain, we encourage you to contact us for a personalised consultation. Our experienced chiropractic team will conduct a thorough assessment, explain our findings and what we think is possible in clear terms. If appropriate, we will develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific condition and goals, aiming to maximise your possible benefit.
Not all complaints are appropriate for chiropractic care: If we think we cannot help your complaint, or you require more investigations, we will do our best to support you in finding you another path forward.
Contact us today to book a consultation.