Shoulder and arm pain can make simple tasks hard, like reaching for a shelf, carrying groceries or sleeping on your side. At HealthSource Chiropractic of Roseland, Dr. Jenna Patel, D.C., looks for the source of the problem, not only the symptoms. Sometimes the trouble starts in the shoulder itself. Other times it begins in the neck and travels down the arm. This page explains common causes, how we evaluate you and what care may help.
Common causes of shoulder strain and stiffness
Your shoulder moves in more directions than almost any other joint. That range is useful, but it also leaves the joint open to strain. For example, lifting a heavy box, reaching overhead again and again or a long day of throwing can overload the muscles around it.
Desk work plays a part for many people too. When you lean toward a screen with your shoulders rolled forward, the muscles at the front can tighten. Meanwhile, the muscles across your upper back can tire. Over time, the shoulder may feel stiff or achy, especially when you reach behind you or lift your arm to the side.
When shoulder and arm pain starts in the neck
Not every sore arm is a shoulder problem. Nerves leave the spine in your neck and run down through the shoulder into the arm and hand. When one of those nerves is irritated, you may feel shoulder pain that runs down the arm. Some people also notice tingling, numbness or a weak grip. That is why Dr. Patel checks your neck as well as your shoulder. Our page on neck pain relief explains how desk posture affects the neck.
How Dr. Patel evaluates your shoulder
Every case is different, so Dr. Patel evaluates you before any care starts. First, you fill out a health history questionnaire. Then you talk with Dr. Patel about when the pain began, which movements make it worse and what your work and hobbies involve.
Next comes a physical exam that checks your posture, mobility and pain. Dr. Patel has extra training in movement analysis, so she watches how your neck, shoulder blade and arm move together. We take X-rays on site only if they are clinically needed. Finally, she explains her findings and a personalized care plan before any care begins. This page is educational and is not a diagnosis.
Care options for shoulder and arm pain
Your plan depends on what the exam shows. Care for shoulder and arm pain may include one or more of these options:
- Hands-on chiropractic adjustments that aim to help your neck and upper back move more freely
- Soft tissue work, including instrument-assisted techniques, for tight muscles
- Class IV laser therapy, when it fits your case
- Progressive Rehab® exercises that aim to build strength and control around the shoulder blade
- Kinesiology taping to support the area between visits
- Posture and workstation tips you can use at your desk
Dr. Patel explains each step and why she suggests it. You can ask questions at any point, and you decide what fits your goals.
For more on common shoulder problems, MedlinePlus has a plain guide to shoulder injuries and disorders.
Daily habits that may ease shoulder and arm pain
Small changes may also help between visits. These are general tips, so ask Dr. Patel which ones suit you.
- Keep items you use often between waist and chest height.
- Set your mouse close to the keyboard so you do not reach for it.
- Take short breaks to roll your shoulders and gently turn your head.
- Carry heavy bags with both hands, or switch sides often.
- Try not to sleep on the sore side for now.
When to see a medical doctor or go to the ER
Some symptoms need urgent medical care, not a chiropractor. Call 911 right away if arm pain comes with chest pain, pressure or tightness. Also call 911 if arm pain comes with shortness of breath, a cold sweat, nausea or jaw pain, because these can be signs of a heart attack. MedlinePlus lists more heart attack warning signs.
Get emergency care as well for any of these:
- Sudden weakness or numbness in one arm, especially with a drooping face or trouble speaking
- Severe pain after a fall or blow, or a shoulder that looks out of place
- A hot, red, swollen joint or pain with a fever
- Being unable to lift or move your arm after an injury
See a medical doctor, too, if your pain keeps getting worse, wakes you at night or comes with weight loss you cannot explain. If your exam points to a problem outside chiropractic care, we will tell you.
Get your shoulder checked in Roseland
You can book online or call (973) 200-2424. Ask about our new-patient visit: consultation, exam and X-rays if clinically needed. The offer is for new patients only and does not apply to Medicare, Medicaid, other federal healthcare program patients or ACN members. Our office is at 12 Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 1, in Roseland.