Your shoulders are the most flexible joints in your entire body, which is why shoulder pain is so common among Atlanta’s residents. This joint is one of the most complex and mobile in the body, making it prone to injury and strain. There are a variety of reasons why you may be experiencing shoulder pain. When the nerve root in the spine becomes irritated, pain can transfer from the neck to the shoulders, arms, or hands. If you’re searching for “shoulder pain treatment near me” or need expert care for chronic or acute shoulder issues, this guide will help you better understand your condition and how AICA Orthopedics can help.
Causes Of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from overuse injuries to underlying medical conditions. Below are the most common reasons people experience shoulder pain:
Trauma or Injury
Sudden injuries such as fractures, dislocations, or soft tissue damage can cause immediate and intense shoulder pain. These often result from accidents like falls, car collisions, or sports-related impacts. A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone is forced out of its socket, causing severe pain, swelling, and inability to move the joint. Trauma can also damage ligaments and cartilage, requiring prompt medical attention to prevent long-term complications such as instability or chronic pain.
Rotator Cuff Injuries
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize your shoulder joint and enable a wide range of motion. Injuries to the rotator cuff area can range from inflammation to partial or complete tears. These injuries often result from repetitive motions, such as throwing or lifting, or from acute trauma like a fall. A torn rotator cuff may lead to weakness, difficulty raising the arm, and chronic pain, especially at night. Getting a rotator cuff injury treated as soon as possible can help prevent further damage and improve your chances for a swift recovery.
Frozen Shoulder
Also known as adhesive capsulitis, frozen shoulder is characterized by stiffness, pain, and a limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. Frozen shoulder typically develops in three stages: freezing, where movement becomes increasingly painful; frozen, where stiffness dominates; and thawing, where mobility gradually improves. Frozen shoulder often occurs after a period of immobilization due to surgery or injury and is more common in people with diabetes or thyroid conditions. The exact cause is not always clear, but it can severely impact your daily activities.
Shoulder Impingement
Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons connected to the rotator cuff are compressed as they pass through the shoulder joint. This condition is commonly referred to as “swimmer’s shoulder” because those who continuously move their arms over their shoulders are vulnerable to irritation and pain. Poor posture and weak shoulder muscles can make a shoulder impingement worse, leading to irritation, inflammation, and reduced mobility. Without treatment, shoulder impingement can develop into more severe conditions like rotator cuff tears.
Arthritis
Arthritis in the shoulder can be caused by osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear, or rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition. Both forms of shoulder arthritis lead to joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty performing daily tasks. Over time, cartilage in the shoulder joint may wear down, causing bones to rub against each other. Arthritis pain often worsens with age and can be influenced by genetic factors, previous injuries, or overuse. Maintaining healthy shoulder joint mobility through physical therapy and appropriate treatment can help manage symptoms effectively.
Pinched Nerves
A pinched nerve, or nerve compression, in the neck or shoulder area can lead to radiating pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the shoulder and arm. This condition, also known as cervical radiculopathy, often results from herniated discs, bone spurs, or muscular tightness that presses on nearby nerves. Activities that strain the neck and shoulders, like prolonged computer use, can increase the risk of pinched nerves. Identifying and treating the root cause can alleviate these symptoms and prevent further damage to the nerves.
Poor Posture
Prolonged periods of sitting, slouching, or carrying heavy bags can lead to muscle imbalances and tension in the shoulders. Over time, this poor posture creates a misalignment of the shoulder joint and surrounding structures, causing tightness and pain. Stress and modern sedentary lifestyles also contribute to this issue, leading to tight shoulders that chiropractors often address. Improving posture through ergonomic adjustments, stretches, and strengthening exercises can help alleviate this type of shoulder pain.
Symptoms of Shoulder Pain
The symptoms of shoulder pain can vary depending on the root cause. Some people may experience strong, sudden pain after an injury, while others deal with chronic discomfort that builds over time. Common symptoms include:
- Sharp or Dull Pain: Pain may feel sharp during movement or dull and achy during rest.
- Stiffness: Difficulty moving the shoulder, especially overhead.
- Weakness: Loss of strength in the shoulder, arm, or hand.
- Swelling or Redness: Signs of inflammation.
- Radiating Pain: Discomfort may spread to the neck, arm, or back.
- Clicking or Popping Sounds: This could indicate a rotator cuff issue or joint problem.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s wise to consult a doctor for shoulder pain near me to prevent worsening conditions.
Atlanta Chiropractic Treatment For Shoulder Pain
Our Atlanta chiropractors approach shoulder pain from a number of perspectives, including traditional chiropractic techniques and physical therapy, depending on the circumstances. Manual adjustments help alleviate pain by reducing inflammation that exists around the neck and collarbone.
Applying ice to the affected area also helps reduce pain and inflammation. To rehabilitate your shoulders, your Chiropractor may recommend a combination of joint movement, deep tissue massage, and controlled stretches. Functional training that educates patients on how to adjust their posture and mechanics when performing everyday activities can help prevent shoulder pain from returning over time.
The Importance of Early Treatment
Delaying treatment for shoulder pain can lead to chronic issues and further damage. Many people dismiss shoulder pain as temporary or self-resolving, but when left untreated, it can worsen over time, leading to complications such as reduced mobility, joint instability, and even long-term disability. For example, conditions like rotator cuff injuries or impingements that start as mild discomfort can progress to severe tears or chronic inflammation without intervention.
That’s also why early treatment is not just about reducing pain; it’s about addressing the underlying cause of the issue before it escalates. Whether it’s an overuse injury, arthritis, or trauma-related pain, timely care can significantly improve your outcome. Seeking professional help early ensures a more accurate diagnosis and allows for personalized treatment strategies that align with your needs.
At AICA Orthopedics, we emphasize prevention and early intervention because the sooner you address shoulder pain, the better your chances of avoiding invasive procedures like surgery. Our multidisciplinary team works to provide treatments that alleviate pain, improve functionality, and restore your quality of life. If you’ve been searching for a shoulder pain specialist near me, take action now because it could make all the difference in your recovery.
5 Tips to Prevent Shoulder Pain
While not all causes of shoulder pain are avoidable, adopting preventive measures can significantly reduce your risk of developing shoulder problems. Here are some practical strategies to keep your shoulders healthy and pain-free:
1. Practice Good Posture
Poor posture can put too much stress on your shoulders and surrounding muscles, often leading to pain and stiffness. Make a conscious effort to sit and stand with your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and head aligned with your spine. Consider using ergonomic furniture at work and adjust your desk setup with your screens at eye level to encourage a more neutral posture.
2. Stretch and Warm Up Regularly
Incorporate stretching into your daily routine to improve shoulder flexibility and range of motion. Simple exercises such as shoulder rolls, arm circles, and neck stretches can loosen tight muscles. Before you engage in any physical activities or workouts, it’s always best to spend a few minutes warming up to prepare your shoulders and the rest of your body for the task.
3. Avoid Overuse
Repetitive overhead motions, such as lifting, throwing, or painting, can strain your shoulder joints and lead to conditions like tendonitis or impingement. That’s why it’s important to take regular breaks during repetitive tasks to give your shoulders time to rest and recover. If your job or hobby involves heavy lifting, always make sure you’re using proper techniques to minimize strain.
4. Strengthen Supporting Muscles
Weak or imbalanced shoulder muscles can also increase the likelihood of injuries. Practice stretches and exercises that target not only your shoulders but also the surrounding muscles, including your chest, back, and core. Strengthening these areas can improve your overall stability and reduce the burden on your shoulders. Consult with a physical therapist or trainer to create a safe and effective workout plan.
5. Use Proper Techniques During Activities
Whether you’re exercising, playing sports, or performing household chores, using proper techniques can prevent shoulder strain. Avoid lifting objects that are too heavy, and always engage your legs and core to support the movement rather than relying solely on your shoulders.
Contact AICA Atlanta’s Chiropractors to Treat Shoulder Pain
To determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your unique health needs, your Chiropractor will perform a complete examination to determine the source and extent of your injury. Based on the results of your tests, your Chiropractor will develop treatment solutions that are customized to align with the characteristics of your pain, giving you the best chance to experience a complete, healthy recovery.
If you experience shoulder pain that persists for more than a few days, contact our office right away to schedule an appointment or same-day examination. Our office is open Monday through Sunday and provides 24/7 access for your convenience. Contact or call us today – just dial (404) 889-8828.