The Chiropractic Approach to Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can sneak up on you—whether it’s from a recent injury, a repetitive motion at work, or just sleeping the wrong way. While many people think of chiropractors as “back doctors,” chiropractic care can be incredibly effective in addressing shoulder pain and improving function in the upper body.

At Rainey Chiropractic, we take a comprehensive approach to uncovering the source of your shoulder pain and helping you find long-term relief. Here’s what you should know about how we assess and treat shoulder discomfort.


Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

The shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in the body, which also makes it one of the most vulnerable to strain or injury. Some of the most common reasons people experience shoulder pain include:


  • Rotator cuff injuries
  • Tendinitis or bursitis
  • Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
  • Shoulder impingement
  • Muscle imbalances or postural strain
  • Nerve irritation from the neck or upper back


Because shoulder pain can be caused by problems within the joint itself—or by referred pain from the spine or surrounding tissues—it’s important to identify the root issue rather than just masking the symptoms.


How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Chiropractic care focuses on restoring proper alignment, reducing inflammation, and improving how your muscles and joints function together. Here’s how we help patients with shoulder pain:


1. Thorough Evaluation

We start by assessing not just your shoulder, but your posture, spine, and range of motion. Sometimes shoulder pain is linked to misalignments in the neck or upper back, which can affect nearby nerves and muscles.


2. Chiropractic Adjustments

If we find misalignments in the cervical or thoracic spine that are contributing to your pain, gentle adjustments can relieve nerve pressure and improve movement patterns—supporting shoulder healing from the top down.


3. Soft Tissue Therapy

Muscle tension, trigger points, or adhesions in the shoulder region may respond well to manual therapies. Techniques like myofascial release or targeted stretching can improve mobility and reduce discomfort.


4. Rehabilitative Exercises

We’ll often recommend specific stretches or strengthening exercises to support your shoulder recovery and prevent future flare-ups. These exercises help restore balance and stability in the shoulder girdle and surrounding muscles.


Why Choose Chiropractic for Shoulder Pain?

Many shoulder problems don’t require surgery or medication—but they do require the right combination of care and support. Chiropractic offers a non-invasive, personalized approach that gets to the root of the problem.


Whether your shoulder pain is due to poor posture, overuse, or injury, we’re here to help you move more freely and comfortably again. At Rainey Chiropractic, we tailor your care to your unique situation so you can get back to your daily routine without lingering pain holding you back.


If shoulder pain is limiting your movement or affecting your quality of life, chiropractic care may be the solution you’ve been looking for. Let’s work together to restore comfort, function, and freedom to your shoulder.

A  row of matches with one burned out.
By Ian Rainey June 13, 2025
If you’ve ever visited a chiropractor—or even just explored chiropractic care—you’ve likely heard the term subluxation. But what exactly does it mean, and why is it such a core part of chiropractic philosophy?
A doctor holding a stethoscope.
By Ian Rainey June 11, 2025
When most people think about going to the chiropractor, it’s usually after an injury or when they’re already in pain. But chiropractic care isn’t just about responding to problems—it can also be a powerful part of a preventative health routine.
A runner stretching his leg.
By Ian Rainey June 11, 2025
One of the most common questions we get at Rainey Chiropractic is: “How often should I come in for an adjustment?” The answer isn’t the same for everyone—it depends on your unique health goals, current condition, and how your body responds to treatment.
More Posts