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Why Does My Shoulder Hurt?
Shoulder pain is frustrating. It makes it hard to lift, reach, sleep, or train. Many people assume the problem is in the shoulder itself. Sometimes it is. But often, the real cause starts somewhere else.
At The Alignment Studio in Irvine, CA, Dr. Monica Scott sees shoulder pain every week. It is especially common in weightlifters, jiu-jitsu athletes, and people who work at a desk all day. Our goal is simple: find the root cause, then fix it.
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
1. Rotator Cuff Strain or Tendinitis
The rotator cuff is a group of four small muscles. They keep your shoulder stable. Overhead lifting, throwing, and repetitive motion can irritate these tendons. You may feel pain when lifting your arm or lying on that side.
2. Shoulder Impingement
When the space in the shoulder joint narrows, tendons can get pinched. Rounded shoulders and poor posture make this worse. It often causes pain when reaching overhead.
3. Pain Coming From Your Neck
This one surprises many patients. The nerves that supply your shoulder and arm come from your neck. If a joint in your neck is stiff or irritated, you can feel pain in the shoulder, shoulder blade, or down the arm. Treating only the shoulder will not fix it.
4. Tight Upper Back and Shoulder Blade
Your shoulder sits on your shoulder blade. If your upper back is stiff, your shoulder has to work harder. This creates strain over time.
5. Frozen Shoulder
This condition causes the shoulder to become very stiff and painful. It develops slowly and can last months. Gentle care can help maintain motion and ease discomfort.
Shoulder or Neck? Signs to Watch For
Your pain may be coming from your neck if:
- Pain travels down your arm or into your hand
- You feel tingling or numbness in your fingers
- Turning or tilting your head changes the shoulder pain
- Your shoulder pain comes with neck stiffness or headaches
Your pain is more likely from the shoulder itself if:
- It hurts mostly when you lift or rotate your arm
- It hurts to sleep on that side
- You can point to one specific spot on the shoulder
Often, it is a mix of both. That is why a full evaluation matters.
How Dr. Monica Treats Shoulder Pain
Every plan starts with a thorough exam. Dr. Monica checks your neck, upper back, shoulder blade, and shoulder joint. She tests your strength and range of motion. When needed, she uses on-site digital X-rays for a clear picture.
Then, your care may include:
- Chiropractic adjustments to the neck, upper back, and shoulder
- Soft tissue therapy and Rapid Release for tight muscles
- Shockwave therapy for stubborn tendon pain
- Class IV laser therapy to calm inflammation
- Exercises to strengthen and stabilize the shoulder
Back to Lifting, Rolling, and Living
Many of our patients are athletes. They want to get back to the gym or the mat, not just stop hurting. Dr. Monica builds your plan around your goals. We help you heal, then help you stay strong.
When to See a Medical Doctor
Some shoulder pain needs urgent medical care. Seek help right away if you have sudden severe pain after a fall, a visible deformity, or shoulder pain with chest pain or shortness of breath. Dr. Monica will also refer you out if your exam suggests a full tear or another issue that needs imaging or a specialist.
Don’t Wait: Schedule Your Consultation in Irvine Today!
Shoulder pain does not have to slow you down. Dr. Monica Scott will find the real cause and create a plan that works.
Book your New Patient Visit today and get back to doing what you love.
