Shoulder and arm pain can range from a minor annoyance to a condition that makes it impossible to perform basic daily tasks like reaching overhead, lifting, or even getting dressed. What many patients do not realize is that shoulder and arm pain often has a spinal component, meaning the source of the problem is not always where the pain is felt.
Dr. Frank Stiso at Stiso Chiropractic, Acupuncture & Massage Therapy in Manasquan, NJ takes a thorough, whole-body approach to shoulder and arm pain to make sure the actual cause is identified and addressed.
What Causes Shoulder and Arm Pain?
Shoulder and arm pain can originate from several different sources, which is why an accurate diagnosis is so important before beginning treatment. Common causes include:
Local Shoulder Problems
Rotator cuff injuries, shoulder impingement, bursitis, tendinitis, frozen shoulder, and AC joint dysfunction are all conditions that originate within the shoulder joint itself. These can develop from acute injury, overuse, or degenerative changes over time.
Cervical Spine Involvement
The nerves that control sensation and movement in the shoulder, arm, and hand exit the spinal cord through the cervical spine in the neck. When these nerves are compressed or irritated by a disc herniation, bone spur, or spinal misalignment, pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness can radiate down the entire length of the arm. This is called cervical radiculopathy and it is frequently mistaken for a shoulder problem when the true source is in the neck.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Compression of the nerves and blood vessels between the collarbone and first rib can produce pain, numbness, and tingling in the shoulder, arm, and hand that is often misdiagnosed or overlooked.
Postural Imbalances
Rounded shoulders and forward head posture place chronic mechanical stress on the structures of the shoulder and upper arm, contributing to pain and dysfunction over time.
Symptoms of Shoulder and Arm Pain
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Aching, sharp, or burning pain in the shoulder or arm
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Pain that worsens with reaching, lifting, or overhead activity
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Numbness or tingling that travels down the arm into the hand or fingers
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Weakness in the shoulder, arm, or grip
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Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the shoulder
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Pain that is worse at night or disrupts sleep
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A clicking, popping, or catching sensation in the shoulder joint
How Chiropractic Care Helps
Dr. Stiso evaluates both the shoulder joint and the cervical and thoracic spine to determine where the problem is actually originating. This distinction matters enormously because a shoulder problem and a cervical nerve problem require different treatment approaches.
For shoulder conditions with a local origin, chiropractic care addresses the joint mechanics and surrounding soft tissue to restore proper function and reduce pain. For conditions with a cervical or thoracic spine component, spinal adjustments to relieve nerve pressure are central to the treatment plan. In many cases both the local shoulder and the spine need to be addressed together for the best outcome.
Dr. Stiso uses diversified manipulation, Activator Method, and drop table technique depending on the nature and location of the problem, always tailoring his approach to the individual patient.
Why Choose Dr. Stiso for Shoulder and Arm Pain
Shoulder and arm pain is one of those conditions where getting the diagnosis right at the outset makes the difference between a treatment plan that works and one that misses the mark entirely. Dr. Stiso takes the time to perform a thorough evaluation before recommending any course of care, and he is straightforward about what chiropractic can address and when a referral to another provider is the more appropriate path.
Ready to Get Started?
If shoulder or arm pain is limiting your daily life in Manasquan, Wall Township, or the surrounding Monmouth County area, Dr. Stiso and the team at Stiso Chiropractic, Acupuncture & Massage Therapy are ready to help.
Call us at (732) 528-7746 or click the button below to get started. Most major insurance accepted. New patients are always welcome.