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Shoulder Pain

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Are you experiencing shoulder pain?

Shoulder pain can develop for many reasons, including muscle tension, daily habits, poor posture, faulty movement patterns, and ongoing stress. In many cases, the pain is not caused by a single injury or overuse, but by subtle dysfunctions in soft tissue and muscle coordination. Inefficient breathing patterns can also play a role, leading to overactivity in the muscles of the chest, shoulders, and neck. When this happens, discomfort may spread beyond the shoulder into the neck, arms, or hands. This highlights how closely connected breathing, posture, and muscular control are when addressing and resolving shoulder pain.

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Shoulder Treatments in Birmingham, Alabama

Treatment options for Shoulder pain

Effective treatment for shoulder pain begins with identifying the root cause. Using evidence-based care strategies is essential for achieving meaningful, long-term relief. Our approach to shoulder pain commonly includes Chiropractic Adjustments, Dry Needling, Functional Rehabilitation, and Class IV Laser Therapy. These treatments work together to reduce pain and inflammation, improve tissue healing, restore mobility, and optimize muscular coordination.

 

When appropriate, care is supported by targeted spinal manipulation and progressive rehabilitative exercises to reinforce proper movement patterns and prevent recurrence. Additional therapies such as massage therapy, acupuncture, and functional training may also be incorporated to enhance recovery, support overall wellness, and help patients return to daily activities and performance with confidence.

Shoulder impingement

Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff become compressed during arm movement, leading to pain and restricted motion. It is commonly associated with repetitive or overhead activities and often presents as discomfort in the shoulder or upper arm. Common symptoms include pain, weakness, and stiffness that may worsen with use. Treatment typically focuses on reducing irritation, improving mobility, and restoring proper shoulder mechanics through targeted rehabilitation and chiropractic care. Early recognition and appropriate intervention can help improve shoulder function, prevent further irritation, and support long-term shoulder health.

Tendonitis

Tendonitis is characterized by a persistent, dull ache in the affected area, most commonly caused by overuse or repetitive stress on a tendon. It often develops gradually, particularly in athletes or individuals with physically demanding occupations. Ongoing strain can lead to inflammation, resulting in pain that interferes with daily activities and performance. Identifying symptoms early is key to effective treatment, helping reduce irritation, prevent further injury, and restore normal movement and function.

Labrum Tear

Shoulder labral tears commonly develop from repetitive overhead movements or sudden, forceful actions. Individuals involved in sports such as baseball, swimming, and weightlifting—as well as those whose daily activities require frequent overhead reaching—are at increased risk. Damage to the labrum can compromise shoulder stability, leading to pain, limited range of motion, and functional limitations if left untreated. Successful rehabilitation focuses on restoring proper movement patterns, improving shoulder stability, and strengthening the surrounding muscles to support long-term recovery and performance.

Rotator Cuff Sprain/Strain

A rotator cuff sprain or strain occurs when the muscles or tendons that stabilize the shoulder are overstretched or overloaded. This can result from sudden movements, heavy lifting, repetitive overhead activity, or gradual wear over time. Common symptoms include shoulder pain, weakness, stiffness, and difficulty lifting or rotating the arm. If left untreated, these injuries can lead to reduced shoulder stability and limited function. Effective care focuses on reducing inflammation, restoring proper movement mechanics, and strengthening the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles to support healing, prevent reinjury, and return the shoulder to optimal performance.

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Shoulder pain can present in a variety of ways, including:

  •  Sharp, localized pain

  •  Muscle tightness or spasms

  • Headaches or neck tension

  • Limited range of motion or reduced mobility

  • General fatigue or low energy levels

  • Persistent or chronic fatigue

  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness extending into the arm or hand

  • Decreased shoulder or arm strength

  • A pinching or catching sensation during overhead movements

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