When Shoulder Pain Isn’t from Your Shoulder
Apr 11, 2025
Shoulder pain is one of the most common complaints physical therapists treat—but the shoulder itself isn’t always the problem. In fact, pain in this area is often the result of issues elsewhere in the body. If you’ve tried rest, ice, and stretches with no success, the root cause might not be your shoulder at all.
Referred Pain from the Neck
How it shows up
One of the most common culprits is the cervical spine. Nerve irritation, disc issues, or stiffness in the neck can cause pain that radiates into the shoulder, arm, or upper back. This is known as referred pain, and it’s easy to confuse with a local shoulder injury.
What causes it
Poor posture, stress, sleeping positions, or even past trauma can lead to neck-related pain that mimics shoulder dysfunction. If your pain worsens when you turn your head or sit for long periods, the neck may be the true source.
Postural Imbalances and the Shoulder Trap
- Sitting too long: Desk jobs often lead to rounded shoulders, forward head posture, and tight upper traps—all of which strain the shoulder area.
- Weak core or hips: Your shoulder may be compensating for weaknesses in other areas, especially if you’re active.
- Carrying stress: Tension held in your neck and shoulders can create chronic tightness that eventually becomes pain.
Improving posture and addressing full-body mechanics is often the key to relief—especially when traditional shoulder treatments haven’t worked.
Other Body Parts That Can Be the Real Problem
- Cervical spine (neck) – Frequently overlooked but responsible for many radiating symptoms.
- Hips – Instability or mobility restrictions can throw off shoulder movement patterns.
- Thoracic spine and rib cage – Limited rotation here often leads to overuse of the shoulder.
- Core – Poor abdominal control can lead to poor movement quality in the upper body.
This is why our team always performs a full-body movement assessment. We’re not just looking at your shoulder—we’re looking at how everything works together.
Activities That Often Lead to Referred Shoulder Pain
Repetitive overhead movements
Swimmers, painters, and weightlifters often experience shoulder pain caused by upper back stiffness, weak glutes, or core fatigue. We treat the whole system, not just the symptoms.
Poor work-from-home setups
Laptops, soft couches, and non-adjustable desks can wreak havoc on your alignment. If you’re spending hours in an unsupported position, the pain is likely more about your setup than your shoulder.
How a Physical Therapist Looks at Shoulder Pain Differently
- Movement screen: We evaluate how your body moves as a unit—not just isolated joints.
- Strength and mobility testing: We assess the neck, spine, shoulder blade control, and even hips and ankles.
- Integrated treatment plan: We combine hands-on work, targeted exercise, and education to keep you feeling better longer.
Not Sure What’s Causing the Pain?
If traditional treatments haven’t helped, it may be time to take a different approach. Our team specializes in shoulder assessments that look beyond the obvious. We also offer orthopedic physical therapy designed to treat the entire body—not just the spot that hurts.
We serve patients throughout the region, including those looking for expert San Diego and San Marcos physical therapy services. Let’s figure out what’s really going on and get you on the path to pain-free movement.
For informational purposes only.
