Shoulder Pain

Shoulder Pain Treatment at Balance Atlanta

Shoulder pain is a common issue that can impact daily activities and overall quality of life. The shoulder is a highly mobile joint, allowing for a wide range of motion, which also makes it vulnerable to various types of injuries and conditions. At Balance Atlanta, we specialize in diagnosing and treating shoulder pain with a comprehensive approach that combines chiropractic care, functional medicine, and advanced therapies to provide effective relief and promote recovery.

Understanding Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can originate from the shoulder joint itself or from surrounding structures such as muscles, tendons, or ligaments. The complexity of the shoulder joint, which includes the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and clavicle (collarbone), makes it susceptible to a variety of conditions.

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

Recovery from surgery can present various challenges that need to be addressed for a successful outcome:

Rotator Cuff Injuries

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that stabilize the shoulder. Injuries such as tendinitis, tears, or strains can cause pain and limit movement.

Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

This occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff become irritated or compressed during shoulder movements, leading to pain and inflammation.

Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, making it difficult to move the arm. It often develops gradually and can significantly impact mobility.

Shoulder Bursitis

Bursitis involves inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the shoulder joint. It can cause pain and swelling, especially with repetitive movements.

Shoulder Dislocation

A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone is forced out of its socket, often due to trauma or injury. It can cause severe pain and instability in the joint.

Labral Tears

The labrum is a ring of cartilage that helps stabilize the shoulder joint. Tears in the labrum can cause pain, clicking, and instability.

Metabolic Disease

Diabetes is a common underlying cause of frozen shoulder due to high blood sugar levels that can lead to inflammation and thickening of the shoulder capsule. This condition, along with joint immobility, is often linked to reduced collagen elasticity and increased stiffness in connective tissues throughout the body.

Arthritis

Shoulder arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can cause joint pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.

Statistics on Shoulder Pain

How Chiropractic Care Can Help with Shoulder Pain

At Balance Atlanta, we offer a range of chiropractic treatments designed to address the underlying causes of shoulder pain and support overall recovery. Our approach includes:

Spinal Adjustments: Chiropractic adjustments can help realign the spine and improve overall posture, which can reduce strain on the shoulder and support healing.
Shoulder Adjustments and Mobilizations: We perform specific adjustments and mobilizations to restore proper function and alignment in the shoulder joint. These techniques can improve range of motion and reduce pain.
Soft Tissue Therapy: Our soft tissue therapies, such as myofascial release and trigger point therapy, target tight muscles and fascia around the shoulder. These techniques help alleviate tension and improve blood flow to the affected area.
Rehabilitation Exercises: Customized exercise programs are designed to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder, improve flexibility, and support overall joint function. These exercises are tailored to your specific needs and recovery goals.
Posture Correction: We provide guidance on maintaining proper posture and ergonomics to reduce strain on the shoulder and prevent future issues. Proper posture can help manage pain and improve shoulder function.

Functional Medicine for Shoulder Pain

Functional medicine complements chiropractic care by addressing nutritional and lifestyle factors that impact joint health and overall recovery.

Functional medicine treatments may include:

Nutritional Support: A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce inflammation and support joint health. We offer nutritional counseling to guide you toward foods that promote healing and alleviate shoulder pain.
Supplements: Supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and turmeric can support joint health and reduce inflammation. We provide personalized recommendations based on your specific needs.
Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporating lifestyle changes, such as regular physical activity and stress management, can improve overall well-being and support shoulder pain management. We work with you to implement these practices effectively.

Advanced Therapies for Shoulder Pain

In addition to chiropractic care and functional medicine, Balance Atlanta offers advanced therapies to support shoulder pain treatment.

Cold Laser Therapy: Cold laser therapy helps reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing around the shoulder. This non-invasive treatment supports pain relief and accelerates recovery.
Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold to the shoulder can help manage pain and inflammation. We provide guidance on the appropriate use of heat and cold therapy for optimal results.
Electrical Stimulation: Electrical stimulation therapy can assist in reducing muscle spasms and improving circulation around the shoulder. This therapy supports overall pain relief and muscle relaxation.

Why Choose Balance Atlanta for Shoulder Pain Treatment?

At Balance Atlanta, we are committed to providing comprehensive, personalized care for shoulder pain. Our experienced team of chiropractors and healthcare professionals uses a holistic approach to deliver effective treatments and support your recovery.

Here’s why Balance Atlanta is the best choice for managing shoulder pain:

Holistic Approach: We combine chiropractic care, functional medicine, and advanced therapies to offer a well-rounded treatment plan for shoulder pain.
Customized Treatment Plans: We tailor our treatments to address the underlying causes of your shoulder pain and develop a personalized plan to meet your recovery goals.
Experienced Professionals: Our team is highly trained in treating shoulder pain, using evidence-based techniques to provide effective results.
Comprehensive Support: From pain management to rehabilitation and lifestyle adjustments, we offer comprehensive support to enhance your shoulder health and overall well-being.

If you’re seeking effective relief from shoulder pain, contact Balance Atlanta today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you find lasting relief and support your journey to a healthier, pain-free life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common causes of shoulder pain?

Shoulder pain can result from injuries, overuse, arthritis, poor posture, or issues in surrounding muscles
and joints. Common conditions include rotator cuff strain, tendonitis, bursitis, and frozen shoulder.
Sometimes, pain originates from the neck or upper back and radiates into the shoulder. Because the
shoulder is highly mobile, even slight imbalances can create discomfort. Chiropractors often evaluate
the spine, posture, and shoulder mechanics to identify the root cause. Addressing alignment and
muscle tension helps relieve pain and restore healthier movement in the joint.

How does posture affect shoulder pain?

Rounded shoulders or forward head posture strain the muscles and joints around the shoulders. This
posture occurs with desk work or extended screen time. Over time, it weakens stabilizing muscles and
overloads others, leading to stiffness and discomfort. Posture imbalances can also contribute to nerve
irritation in the neck, causing referred pain in the shoulders. Chiropractors focus on correcting posture
with adjustments, exercises, and ergonomic guidance. By realigning the spine and shoulders, care
reduces stress and supports long-term comfort and mobility.

What are common symptoms of shoulder problems?

Shoulder problems often cause pain with lifting, reaching overhead, or moving the arm behind the back.
Stiffness, weakness, or grinding sensations are also standard. Some people experience shooting pain
in the arm or numbness if nerves are irritated. Discomfort may interfere with daily tasks, such as
dressing, carrying groceries, or getting a good night’s sleep. Chiropractors evaluate shoulder mobility,
muscle balance, and spinal alignment. By addressing both local dysfunction and contributing factors
elsewhere in the body, care helps reduce pain and improve shoulder function.

Can shoulder pain come from the neck or spine?

Problems in the joint itself don’t always cause shoulder pain. Misalignments or nerve irritation in the
neck or upper back often radiate pain into the shoulders and arms. This can feel like aching, tingling, or
weakness. Chiropractors examine both the shoulder and spine to determine where the pain originates.
By improving spinal alignment and reducing nerve irritation, chiropractic care often relieves shoulder
discomfort that is actually being referred from other parts of the body.

How can chiropractic care help with shoulder pain?

Chiropractic care addresses both the shoulder joint and related areas that influence it, such as the
spine, neck, and upper back. Adjustments restore proper alignment, reducing stress on the shoulder
and surrounding muscles. Soft tissue therapy, stretching, and guided exercises may also be used to
relieve tension and improve mobility. This whole-body approach helps correct imbalances, ease
inflammation, and restore strength. Many patients find that chiropractic care not only reduces shoulder
pain but also helps prevent future injuries and improves overall posture.

Can injuries cause long-term shoulder problems?

Injuries such as dislocations, rotator cuff tears, or repetitive strain can lead to scar tissue, stiffness, and
chronic pain if not managed properly. Even minor strains can create lingering issues when
compensatory movements overload other muscles. Chiropractors assist with post-injury recovery by
restoring alignment, enhancing mobility, and supporting the healing of tissues. Care often includes
exercises to strengthen stabilizing muscles and prevent reinjury. By addressing both the injury and the
compensations it causes, chiropractic care supports long-term shoulder health and function.

Is shoulder pain common in athletes?

Athletes often put extra strain on their shoulders through repetitive overhead motions in sports like
baseball, swimming, or tennis. These movements can lead to tendonitis, impingement, or instability.
Contact sports may also cause dislocations or sprains. Chiropractors often work with athletes to restore
proper alignment, enhance flexibility, and alleviate muscle tension. Care helps relieve pain while also
improving performance by supporting efficient movement. Preventive adjustments and strengthening
exercises further reduce the risk of recurring shoulder injuries in active individuals.

How do lifestyle habits contribute to shoulder pain?

Everyday habits, such as carrying heavy bags, slouching at a desk, or sleeping in awkward positions,
can strain the shoulders over time. Repetitive tasks, such as lifting or reaching, may also overload the
joint. Chiropractors often help patients identify and change these habits. Care may include posture
correction, ergonomic recommendations, and stretches tailored to daily activities. By combining
chiropractic adjustments with healthier lifestyle habits, patients can reduce stress on their shoulders
and improve long-term joint comfort and function.

Can shoulder pain be prevented?

Prevention begins with good posture, regular stretching, and strengthening the muscles that stabilize
the shoulder. Avoiding repetitive overuse, lifting with proper form, and using ergonomic setups at work
all reduce strain. Chiropractors provide preventive care through adjustments that maintain spine and
shoulder alignment, along with exercises to build resilience. By combining these strategies, patients
protect their shoulders from unnecessary stress and reduce the risk of developing chronic pain or
injuries.

When should shoulder pain be taken seriously?

Shoulder pain should be evaluated if it persists for more than a few days, worsens over time, or limits
daily activities. Sudden severe pain, swelling, or inability to move the arm may indicate injury and
require prompt attention. Numbness, tingling, or weakness may signal nerve involvement.
Chiropractors help determine whether the pain is mechanical and suitable for care or if further testing is
needed. Early evaluation prevents minor issues from becoming chronic and ensures proper treatment
for more serious conditions.