The Top Overlooked Cause of Shoulder Pain and How to Treat It

Shoulder pain is a common occurrence among people of all ages and lifestyles. While rotator cuff injuries and frozen shoulders are often the go-to culprits, there is another cause of shoulder pain that often goes overlooked: cervical radiculopathy. In this blog post, we will explore what cervical radiculopathy is, the symptoms to look out for, and how to treat it.

Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root in the neck becomes compressed or irritated. This condition can cause pain and weakness not only in the neck but also in the shoulder, arm, and even fingers. The most common causes of cervical radiculopathy are herniated discs, bone spurs, and degenerative disc disease. However, it can also be caused by things such as poor posture, repetitive strain injuries, or trauma to the neck.

The symptoms of cervical radiculopathy can vary depending on the affected nerve root but common symptoms may include pain that radiates from the neck down to the shoulder and arm, tingling or numbness in the shoulder or arm, and muscle weakness in the arm or hand. It is important to note that not everyone with cervical radiculopathy will experience pain in the neck, making it an overlooked cause of shoulder pain.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Your healthcare provider may recommend a combination of treatments including rest, physical therapy, pain medication, or chiropractic adjustments. Chiropractic adjustments can help relieve pressure on the affected nerve root, reducing pain and restoring function.

At Lions Chiropractic & Injury, we specialize in chiropractic care for cervical radiculopathy and other causes of shoulder pain. Our chiropractors use gentle techniques to adjust the spine and alleviate pressure on the affected nerve root. In addition to adjustments, we may also recommend stretches and exercises to strengthen the muscles in the neck and shoulder and improve posture.

It is also important to address any underlying lifestyle factors that contribute to cervical radiculopathy. Our chiropractors will work with you to identify and address these factors, which may include poor posture, repetitive strain injuries, or trauma to the neck. We can also provide ergonomic assessments and recommendations to improve your workstation or daily activities.

Conclusion

Shoulder pain can be a debilitating condition that affects your ability to work, play, and enjoy life. By understanding the overlooked cause of cervical radiculopathy, you can take steps to prevent and treat shoulder pain. If you are experiencing shoulder pain or other symptoms of cervical radiculopathy, contact Lions Chiropractic & Injury today for specialized chiropractic care in Orlando, FL. Our gentle techniques and holistic approach to care can help you find relief and restore function.