Posture and Shoulder Pain

Many people experience shoulder pain due to an accident or injury. For others, however, it can develop from something as simple as poor posture.

 

A board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist, Dr. Jeremy Woodson and our skilled team offer state-of-the-art treatments and preventive care at our office in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Whether you have a shoulder issue or another ailment, we aim to help you stay pain-free and functioning at your best, whether it's on the field or in everyday life.

Shoulder pain

Shoulder pain strikes about 7 out of 10 adults at least once during their lives. Given the joint's complicated mechanics it's not hard to understand why.

 

What is typically described as "the shoulder" is, in reality, multiple joints that connect with tendons and muscles. The good news is this structure allows you to move your arm in a wide range of motion including reaching around to your back, grabbing a plate off the top shelf, or throwing a baseball. But with all these moving parts issues like instability or impingement of the bony structures or the soft tissue are common.

Shoulder anatomy

The shoulder consists of three bones — the humerus (upper arm bone), the scapula (shoulder blade), and the clavicle (the collarbone). The shoulder blade has a rounded socket where the head of the humerus fits. Muscles and tendons known as the rotator cuff cover the top of the upper arm bone, attaching it to the shoulder blade and keeping it centered in the socket.

Shoulder problems

Shoulder issues can be caused due to several factors like a fracture or broken bone, arthritis, instability, or a tendon issue like inflammation or a tear. Poor posture is also a factor known to cause discomfort.

How poor posture causes shoulder pain

The way you sit and stand can have a ripple effect throughout your body, including your shoulders. For example, your posture positions your shoulder blades and determines the efficiency of the shoulder muscles and how well these muscles cooperate.

 

Several bad posture habits can contribute to shoulder discomfort and pain. These include activities that involve looking down for extended periods such as using a computer, tablet, or smartphone. Sitting for too long, driving, bending over repetitively, and carrying heavy objects repeatedly can also be a problem.

Professional advice

The first step if you're experiencing shoulder pain is to get a professional diagnosis to determine the exact cause. Dr. Woodson accomplishes this with a thorough examination that includes discussing your health history, evaluating your range of motion, and ordering imaging studies if needed. If your diagnosis is due to poor posture we may recommend physical therapy, strengthening exercises, and other similar suggestions.

 

If you're experiencing shoulder pain, call our office today at 405-233-3602 to get on the road to recovery.

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