Shoulder Pain
Comprehensive, non-invasive care focused on identifying the source of shoulder pain, calming irritated nerves and soft tissue, and restoring movement so you can get back to daily activities.
Shoulder pain is one of the most common complaints we see, and it doesn't always start in the shoulder itself.
The right treatment depends on whether the pain is coming from the joint, the surrounding muscles and tendons, or nerves referred from the neck — and that starts with a thorough evaluation.
Why does shoulder pain happen — and where does it actually come from?
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body, which also makes it one of the most vulnerable to injury, overuse, and degeneration. Pain can come from the joint itself, the rotator cuff and surrounding soft tissue, or from nerve irritation that begins elsewhere.
Many shoulder issues are connected to the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that runs from the lower neck through the upper shoulder and controls movement and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and wrist. When these nerves are irritated near the neck, the pain is often felt in the shoulder.
Because of this overlap, an evaluation for shoulder pain typically includes a look at the neck as well as the shoulder joint itself.
What commonly leads to shoulder pain.
Shoulder pain is frequently related to arthritis or a previous injury, but it can also develop gradually from repetitive strain, poor posture, or referred irritation from the neck and upper back.
Shoulder pain isn't always a shoulder problem.
Because the brachial plexus nerves travel from the neck into the shoulder and arm, a spinal or nerve issue in the neck can present as shoulder pain. A full evaluation helps identify the true source before starting treatment.
Signs that shoulder pain may need attention.
Symptoms vary depending on whether the issue is coming from the joint, the surrounding soft tissue, or a nerve being irritated near the neck.
Some symptoms warrant prompt evaluation.
Conservative care built around your evaluation findings.
Because shoulder pain can begin in the neck, the joint, or the soft tissue, our doctors begin with an exam of the neck area as well as the shoulder itself. Care is then personalized to the findings.
Chiropractic Manipulation
Gentle, targeted adjustment intended to help the shoulder and related joints return toward normal function.
Physical Therapy
Guided exercises to rebuild strength, stability, and healthy movement patterns around the shoulder.
Heat & Ice Application
Used to help manage pain and inflammation as part of an active treatment plan.
Stretching & Strengthening
Take-home exercises designed to support recovery between visits.
Financing Available with Affirm
Qualified patients may be able to divide the cost of a recommended shoulder treatment plan into manageable monthly payments through Affirm.
How we evaluate shoulder pain.
Symptom History
We review when the pain began, what makes it better or worse, and any prior injuries or treatment.
Neck & Shoulder Exam
Since shoulder pain often begins in the neck, we examine both areas along with strength, motion, and reflexes.
Imaging Review
Existing imaging may be reviewed, and additional imaging may be recommended when appropriate.
Personalized Plan
A treatment plan combining chiropractic, physical therapy, and at-home exercise is built around your findings.
Shoulder pain FAQ.
The brachial plexus nerves run from the lower neck through the shoulder. Irritation near the neck can be felt as shoulder pain, which is why we evaluate both areas.
Many cases of shoulder pain respond to conservative care such as chiropractic treatment, physical therapy, and targeted exercise, depending on severity and findings.
Numbness, tingling, or weakness traveling down the arm can indicate nerve irritation rather than a purely local shoulder issue.
Yes. A herniated or bulging disc in the neck can irritate a nerve that refers pain into the shoulder or arm.
Not always. Bring any existing imaging you have, and the provider will determine whether more is needed after the exam.
Timelines vary by severity and cause. Your provider will outline an expected plan and timeframe after your evaluation.
The most common reasons for shoulder pain is arthritis or previous injuries.
Many issues that result in pain through the shoulders are related to the group of nerves called the Brachial Plexus. The nerves in the Brachial Plexus run from the lower neck through the upper shoulder which enable the wrist, arm & shoulder to move and feel. At Columbia Basin Chiropractic, we will offer a comprehensive examination and design a customized individual treatment plan to help alleviate your pain.
Another possible reason for shoulder pain can be due to a vitamin deficiency or perhaps a herniated or bulging disc. The spine encompasses nerves which branch out throughout the entire body and can cause pain by pinched nerves or a misaligned spine. This is why medical, physical therapy and chiropractic care combined is critical in treating a wrist, arm & shoulder pain. Our professional medical experts in Washington, will carefully evaluate your conditions and treat it with a combination of physical therapy, massage therapy, chiropractic care, nutrition and individual exercise regiments.