Pain Edu: Shoulder Pain

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can be very problematic. We use our shoulders in everything we do. From putting on a shirt, reaching up into the refrigerator for a gallon of milk, turning the car steering wheel, and even sleeping on our side. Shoulder pain will limit those basic everyday activities and disrupt our daily routine.  Shoulder problems can occur no matter what your age or activity. There are numerous factors that can result in shoulder pain. Most common factors are related to poor posture due to all of our years spent in school or at a desk at work. Poor breathing patterns can also affect posture and limit shoulder motion. Its all about biomechanics. The shoulder is designed for motion. When shoulder muscles become tight and weak, the joint doesn’t move correctly and becomes irritated, inflamed and painful.

On the other hand, shoulder pain can be a result of direct trauma like a fall, or a hit from behind straining part of the shoulder.  The bottom line is poor posture, shoulder stiffness, and rotator cuff weakness are the major factors directly influence shoulder health. Proper management and evaluation is important in preventing injury, staying healthy, and improving performance.