Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can make everyday activities, reaching overhead, lifting, even sleeping, uncomfortable and frustrating. It often develops slowly from posture issues, overuse, or muscle imbalance, but can also follow an injury. At KIRO, our chiropractors focus on restoring shoulder mobility, improving alignment, and helping you move without pain so you can stay active and strong.
Why does should pain occur?
Shoulder pain often comes from irritation of the muscles, tendons, and joints that support the shoulder’s wide range of motion. Repetitive overhead work, long hours at a desk with rounded shoulders, or sudden strain from sports and lifting can overload the tissues. Over time, this can cause inflammation, tightness, or small tears, and may lead to impingement or frozen shoulder.
What are the common symptoms of shoulder pain?
Aching or sharp pain when lifting the arm, reaching behind the back, or lying on the affected side. Stiffness, weakness, clicking or popping, and pain that worsens with activity or at night are also common.
Who is most at risk of getting shoulder pain?
People with poor posture, especially forward head and rounded shoulders from desk work or phone use. Athletes who throw, swim, or lift overhead, and those who’ve had past shoulder injuries or instability. Aging also increases risk as tendons and joints naturally wear and become less flexible.
How do KIRO doctors treat shoulder pain?
On your first visit, we perform a thorough exam, assessing your shoulder, neck, and upper back, and capture a baseline Nervous System Scan. Using these findings, we design a personalized care plan and guide you through it.
Early care (1–2 times per week) focuses on pain relief and restoring motion. This includes precise adjustments to the cervical, thoracic, and rib joints as needed, plus gentle mobilization of the shoulder to bring back normal joint play. We add targeted muscle activation for the rotator cuff, lower traps, and serratus to improve support, along with posture and ergonomic coaching to reduce daily strain.
Each month we rescan your nervous system to track changes and adjust your plan. Our doctors rotate throughout your care, giving you multiple expert perspectives and ensuring safe, effective treatment.
How long does treatment for should pain take?
Most people notice pain relief within the first few weeks. Restoring full shoulder function and preventing flare-ups typically takes about two to three months of consistent care, depending on how long the problem has been present and activity level.
What are the benefits of chiropractic care for shoulder pain?
Chiropractic care for shoulder pain provides several important benefits, including:
Faster pain relief and reduced muscle tension
Improved joint mobility and shoulder range of motion
Better posture and mechanics for daily activities
Lower risk of re-injury through stability and strength training
A non-drug, non-surgical approach to healing
These benefits help you return to normal movement, stay active, and protect your shoulders from future strain.
READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP?
Schedule your first appointment for just $39.
Includes an Exam, Consultation, and Total-Spinal Adjustment.
Bonus: your $39 is fully-refundable if you decide to become a Member and begin treatment with our doctors during your appointment.