Chiropractic Care for Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain is a common issue among student athletes, active adults, and older individuals, often affecting daily function and quality of life. In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of shoulder pain, how chiropractic care can help, what to expect during a chiropractic examination, techniques used to treat shoulder pain, and the many benefits of chiropractic treatment for the shoulder joint.

If you’re in Chardon, Chagrin Falls, or Middlefield, Ohio, Precision Orthopaedic Specialties is here to help restore your mobility and relieve your pain. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

What Causes Shoulder Pain?

The shoulder joint is one of the most mobile joints in the body, which also makes it more vulnerable to injury and overuse. Common causes of shoulder pain include:

  • Rotator cuff injuries – including rotator cuff tear, rotator cuff tendonitis, and inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons or rotator cuff muscles.
  • Shoulder bursitis – inflammation of the bursa (a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction in the joint).
  • Frozen shoulder – also known as adhesive capsulitis, which leads to stiffness and reduced mobility.
  • Shoulder impingement syndrome – when the shoulder blade rubs against the rotator cuff.
  • Overuse injuries – especially common in athletes and individuals with repetitive overhead motion.
  • Poor posture – leading to imbalance or strain in the shoulder muscles and shoulder blade alignment.

 

Even minor imbalances or tightness in nearby muscles can contribute to chronic shoulder pain if left untreated.

A chiropractor treating a patient with shoulder pain in Ohio.

How Can a Chiropractor Help with My Shoulder Pain?

Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free approach to treating shoulder pain, especially when it’s related to joint misalignment, muscular imbalance, or inflammation. By addressing the root cause of the shoulder injury rather than just masking symptoms, chiropractic professionals can support long-term healing and improved function.

At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, our orthopaedic specialists work closely with chiropractic specialists to provide a comprehensive care plan tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re a student athlete recovering from a sports injury or an adult experiencing chronic pain, chiropractic treatment can be an effective part of your shoulder pain management strategy.

Chiropractic Examination for Shoulder Pain

A chiropractic evaluation begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination. Your chiropractor will assess your:

  • Shoulder alignment and mobility
  • Posture and gait
  • Muscular strength and flexibility
  • Range of motion of the shoulder joint, shoulder blade, and spine

 

Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs may be recommended to rule out fractures or advanced structural issues. The goal is to identify the root of your shoulder pain, whether it stems from a rotator cuff issue, shoulder impingement, or another soft tissue injury.

Chiropractic Shoulder Adjustment Techniques

Once your condition is diagnosed, your chiropractor may use a variety of chiropractic adjustments and soft tissue techniques, such as:

  • Manual adjustments to realign the spine and shoulder joint
  • Mobilization of the shoulder blade and surrounding areas to reduce tension
  • Soft tissue therapy, including myofascial release and trigger point therapy
  • Therapeutic exercises to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles and improve stability
  • Postural correction strategies to prevent re-injury

 

These chiropractic treatment methods are designed to reduce inflammation, increase joint mobility, and support the healing of soft tissues affected by shoulder impingement, frozen shoulder, or overuse.

Benefits of Chiropractic Shoulder Pain Treatment

Many patients report noticeable improvements after just a few sessions of chiropractic care. The benefits of treating shoulder pain with chiropractic treatment may include:

  • Reduced chronic shoulder pain and inflammation
  • Increased range of motion and mobility in the shoulder joint
  • Faster recovery from rotator cuff injuries
  • Decreased reliance on pain medication
  • Improved posture and muscle balance
  • Prevention of future shoulder injury

 

Because chiropractic care is non-surgical, it’s often a first-line treatment option for those hoping to avoid more invasive procedures.

Personalized Relief for Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can interfere with your ability to lift, reach, throw, or even sleep comfortably. At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, our team understands how disruptive chronic shoulder pain can be, especially for active individuals and older adults managing age-related joint concerns.

With convenient locations in Chardon, Chagrin Falls, and Middlefield, Ohio, we offer coordinated orthopaedic and chiropractic care designed to help you return to the activities you love. Whether you’re recovering from a rotator cuff tear, battling frozen shoulder, or dealing with persistent shoulder impingement syndrome, our experienced providers are here to help you feel better, move better, and stay active.

Don’t let shoulder pain slow you down. Contact us today to schedule your evaluation and take the first step toward lasting relief!

Medically reviewed by Brian Filisky, D.C.

Physicians

Our Chiropractor