Shoulder pain that worsens when lifting your arm or working overhead is one of the most common symptoms of shoulder impingement syndrome. As board-certified chiropractic orthopedists, we combine advanced orthopedic diagnostic skills with effective, conservative chiropractic treatment to help you recover without surgery.
Understanding Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons and bursa around the shoulder joint become compressed during arm movement, leading to pain and inflammation. This condition is especially common in people whose work or sports involve frequent overhead activity—such as electricians, painters, or hairstylists.
Why a Chiropractic Orthopedist Provides a More Complete Diagnosis
Unlike standard chiropractic care alone, a chiropractic orthopedist has additional training in orthopedic evaluation, imaging, and differential diagnosis. This means we can pinpoint the exact tissues involved—whether it’s the supraspinatus tendon, biceps tendon, or subacromial bursa—and tailor your treatment accordingly. We can also identify structural causes, such as a hooked or elongated acromion process, that reduce the subacromial space and cause tendons to pinch as you lift your arm.
With in-office X-ray capabilities and access to MRI referrals, you get answers quickly and accurately—often in a single visit.
Common Causes and Contributing Factors
Several structures can contribute to shoulder impingement:
- Rotator cuff tendons (especially the supraspinatus)
• Biceps tendon irritation
• Subacromial bursitis (inflammation of the fluid-filled sac that cushions tendons)
• Poor posture or muscular imbalance, which alters shoulder mechanics
• Acromion variations, which can narrow the subacromial outlet
The result is reduced space for tendons to glide, especially when the arm is raised around 90 degrees.
Evidence-Based Conservative Treatment Options
Our treatment approach addresses both pain relief and long-term function.
- Interferential Therapy (IFT): A form of TENS that stimulates your body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals for lasting relief.
- Therapeutic Ultrasound: Encourages tissue remodeling by improving circulation and cellular healing response.
- Targeted Rehabilitation Exercises: Restores shoulder mechanics and increases subacromial space for better tendon movement.
- Lifestyle and Ergonomic Guidance: We teach activity modifications to prevent re-aggravation—especially for patients who work or train overhead.
This integrated, non-surgical care helps restore pain-free shoulder motion and reduces the risk of chronic tendonitis.
When to See a Board-Certified Chiropractic Orthopedist
If shoulder pain is limiting your work, sleep, or workouts, early evaluation can prevent further injury. Our office provides complete assessment, imaging if necessary, and customized treatment—all under one roof. If advanced imaging or orthopedic referral is needed, we coordinate that seamlessly.
Schedule Your Evaluation Today
Don’t wait for shoulder pain to worsen. Contact Stine Chiropractic Orthopedics at (540) 898-4100 or visit us at stinechiro.com to schedule your evaluation today. Get an expert diagnosis and the relief you deserve—without unnecessary surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is shoulder impingement syndrome?
Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when the tendons or bursa inside the shoulder joint become compressed during arm movement. This leads to pain, inflammation, and limited range of motion—especially when lifting your arm overhead.
What causes shoulder impingement?
Common causes include repetitive overhead activity, structural variations in the acromion, poor posture, muscular imbalance, and inflammation of the rotator cuff or bursa. These factors reduce the space where tendons glide, leading to irritation and pain.
How does a chiropractic orthopedist treat shoulder impingement?
A board-certified chiropractic orthopedist uses advanced orthopedic diagnostic tests to identify the exact source of shoulder pain. Treatment may include interferential therapy, therapeutic ultrasound, targeted rehabilitation exercises, and ergonomic coaching to restore pain-free function without surgery.
How is a chiropractic orthopedist different from a chiropractor?
A chiropractic orthopedist is a chiropractor with additional postgraduate training and board certification in orthopedics. This allows for a more comprehensive evaluation, precise diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment of musculoskeletal injuries.
When should I see a chiropractic orthopedist for shoulder pain?
If your shoulder pain worsens with overhead activity, disturbs your sleep, or limits your work or training, it’s time for a professional evaluation. Early assessment can prevent chronic tendon injury and ensure you get the right diagnosis and care plan.
