The shoulder is the third most common part of the body that chiropractors treat (after the lower back and the neck). As with any part of the body, the shoulder can become painful as a result of wear and tear over time, or as the result of a trauma, like a car accident or a fall. Shoulder pain often begins in the cervical spine, the upper portion of the spine. The nerves that control the hands, arms and shoulders pass through that section of the spine. If these nerves are irritated or impeded by vertebrae—the individual bones of the spine—that are out of line, shoulder muscles can become weak or tight. Muscles that are not working fully and freely can seriously impair the shoulder joint’s function.

Any sport—like tennis, golf or baseball—or any activity that requires lots of repetitive motion can strain the shoulder joint muscles. As the pain increases, people tend to simply use the shoulder less. This is not a good strategy because eventually the muscles will simply adjust to the new range of motion. In severe cases, a person can develop what’s called “frozen shoulder,” an essentially useless joint.

Chiropractic treatment can help correct imbalances in the muscles. If misaligned vertebrae are irritating the nerves that serve the shoulder, your chiropractor can get at the root of the problem. Visit a chiropractor for advice on any pain you’re experiencing.

Presented as a service to the community by Dr. Jeff