Shoulder pain is rarely “just a shoulder problem.” For many people, it develops when posture, spinal alignment, and movement patterns place ongoing strain through the shoulder and surrounding tissues. Pain may be felt at the shoulder, but the cause is often influenced by how the neck, upper back, ribs, and shoulder blade are functioning together.

At Source Chiropractic, we focus on identifying why your shoulder is irritated – not just where it hurts. If shoulder pain is limiting your sleep, work, exercise, or daily activities, we’re here to help.

Shoulder pain doesn’t always present the same way. You may notice:

• Pain when lifting your arm overhead or reaching behind you

• A dull ache through the shoulder, upper arm, or shoulder blade

• Sharp pain with certain movements

• Stiffness, weakness, or reduced range of motion

• Pain that worsens with desk work or prolonged sitting

In many cases, these symptoms develop gradually rather than from a single injury – especially when posture or spinal mechanics place repeated stress on the shoulder over time.

When people say “shoulder pain,” they can be referring to different areas – and each may involve different underlying contributors.

• Top of the shoulder or base of the neck – commonly influenced by neck function, posture, or nerve irritation

• Front or side of the shoulder joint – often related to the shoulder capsule, rotator cuff loading, or restricted joint movement

• Back of the shoulder or between the shoulder blades – frequently associated with rib motion, upper back mechanics, or spinal alignment

Because these regions work together, pain felt in the shoulder doesn’t always originate where it’s felt. This overlap is why shoulder pain can be confusing – and why a thorough assessment matters.

The shoulder is designed for mobility, but that mobility depends on stability and coordination from the spine, rib cage, and shoulder blade. When posture changes – such as forward head position, rounded shoulders, or uneven weight distribution – the shoulder joint is forced to move from a compromised position.

This type of posture-related strain can overload the rotator cuff, irritate surrounding tissues, and alter normal movement patterns. Over time, this may lead to persistent pain, weakness, or recurring flare-ups.

Importantly, shoulder pain may also be influenced by the neck and upper back, even when neck pain isn’t the primary complaint. Changes in spinal motion or nerve function can affect how the shoulder muscles coordinate and tolerate load.

Because shoulder pain can originate from different regions, assessment focuses on posture, spinal function, and movement coordination, including consideration of how spinal and nervous system signaling may be influencing muscle control, tension, and movement patterns.

Many people with shoulder pain also experience neck stiffness, headaches, or upper back discomfort. These patterns are often connected rather than coincidental.

When the underlying mechanics are addressed, improvement is often seen across multiple areas – rather than chasing symptoms from one location to another.

You should consider a professional assessment if:

• Shoulder pain has lasted more than a few days

• Pain is recurring or gradually worsening

• Movement feels restricted, unstable, or weak

• Pain is interfering with sleep, work, or exercise

Early evaluation often makes care simpler and more effective.

If shoulder pain is holding you back, the first step is understanding what’s driving it. We’ll take the time to assess your posture, movement, and spinal function so your care plan is tailored to you – not just your symptoms.

Book your assessment today and take the first step toward restoring comfortable, confident movement.