Conditions We Treat · NW Calgary
Shoulder Pain — the joint and the spine
Shoulder pain is rarely just a shoulder problem. The nerves controlling the shoulder joint exit from the cervical and upper thoracic spine — which means neck and upper back dysfunction can cause or contribute to shoulder pain, even when the shoulder itself looks normal on imaging.
Book an AssessmentThe most mobile joint in the body — and the most vulnerable
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the human body — capable of a remarkable range of movement in multiple planes. That mobility comes with a trade-off: the shoulder's stability depends heavily on the surrounding muscles, tendons, and the integrity of the nerve supply from the cervical spine.
When the nerves controlling the shoulder are compromised — either from cervical disc problems, upper thoracic misalignment, or thoracic outlet syndrome — the muscles around the shoulder can't function optimally, leading to altered movement patterns, compensatory tension, and eventually pain.
We assess shoulder pain from both directions — the joint itself and its spinal nerve supply. Our MAT assessment is particularly valuable for identifying which rotator cuff muscles are underperforming.
Common Shoulder Conditions
Rotator Cuff Strain or Tear
Overuse, poor mechanics, or acute injury can strain or tear the rotator cuff tendons — causing pain with overhead movement and weakness.
Frozen Shoulder
Progressive stiffening and pain in the shoulder joint — often developing after injury or immobility. Chiropractic and soft tissue work can improve mobility.
Referred Pain from the Cervical Spine
C5 or C6 nerve root problems frequently refer pain into the shoulder and upper arm — often misidentified as a shoulder joint problem.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Compression of nerves and blood vessels between the collarbone and first rib — causing shoulder, arm, and hand symptoms.
We assess both the joint and the spinal nerve supply — because treating only one when both are involved is why shoulder pain so often returns.
Shoulder pain that won't go away deserves a full assessment.
We assess both the joint and the spinal nerve supply. INSiGHT scan and MAT assessment included. Direct billing available.
Book Online via JaneApp Call 403‑280‑0945Questions? Call us at 403-280-0945
