Shoulder Pain Relief NYC - Dr. Alicia Armitstead

Dr Alicia Armitstead is providing chiropractic treatment to a female patient for shoulder pain relief NYC and CT

As a leading NYC Chiropractor, I understand how persistent shoulder pain can disrupt your life, making simple tasks feel monumental. I see the frustration and limitations you face daily, from getting dressed to reaching for something on a high shelf. I want you to know that relief is possible by addressing the root cause of your discomfort, not just masking the symptoms. My approach combines effective therapies to restore your mobility, eliminate pain, and improve your quality of life.


-Dr. Alicia Armitstead

Chiropractic Care Treatments for Chronic and Severe Shoulder Pain at the Healing Arts NYC Health and Wellness Center in Manhattan, NY 10017 and Connecticut

What is Shoulder Pain?


Shoulder pain refers to any discomfort experienced in or around the shoulder joint, which is the most mobile joint in the human body. This complexity, however, also makes it susceptible to a wide range of injuries and conditions. The pain can originate from the joint itself or from any of the surrounding muscles, ligaments, or tendons. It can manifest as a dull ache, a sharp sensation, or a feeling of stiffness that limits your range of motion. Understanding the specific source of the pain is the first step toward effective treatment.


The discomfort may be temporary, resulting from a minor strain, or it could be a chronic issue stemming from an underlying condition. Effective shoulder pain treatments focus on identifying and addressing the specific tissues involved. This comprehensive view allows for a targeted strategy to heal the area and prevent future recurrence.

Common Symptoms


The symptoms of shoulder pain can vary greatly depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. You might experience a constant, dull ache or intermittent, sharp pangs of pain. These symptoms can significantly impact your ability to perform daily activities, work, or enjoy your hobbies.


  • Pain and Stiffness: You may feel a persistent ache deep within the shoulder joint, which can worsen with specific movements or at night. This stiffness can make it difficult to lift your arm above your head or reach behind your back, limiting your functional mobility.


  • Reduced Range of Motion: A key symptom is the inability to move your shoulder through its full, normal range. Activities such as combing your hair or putting on a jacket can become challenging or impossible due to significant discomfort.


  • Weakness in the Arm: The muscles supporting your shoulder may feel weak, making it difficult to carry objects or perform tasks that require strength. This weakness often results from pain inhibition or damage to the rotator cuff tendons.


  • A Sensation of Instability: You might feel as though your shoulder is loose or could "pop out" of its socket. This sensation of instability can cause apprehension and a reluctance to use the affected arm for fear of dislocation.


  • Clicking or Popping Sounds: Some individuals report hearing or feeling a clicking, popping, or grinding sensation when they move their shoulder. Although not always accompanied by pain, these noises can indicate abnormalities of the joint surfaces or surrounding tissues.

The Common Causes of Shoulder Pain


Shoulder pain often arises from various causes, ranging from sudden injury to the gradual wear and tear of daily life. One of the most common causes is rotator cuff tendinitis, in which the tendons surrounding the shoulder joint become inflamed or irritated due to overuse or repetitive overhead activities. Another common condition is bursitis, which involves inflammation of the bursae, which provide cushioning for the joint.


Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, can also lead to chronic shoulder pain as the protective cartilage within the joint deteriorates over time. Direct trauma from a fall or accident can result in fractures or a dislocated shoulder, causing immediate and severe pain. Additionally, conditions such as frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) can cause significant stiffness and progressive loss of motion. Sometimes, the pain is referred from another area, such as the neck or biceps. Pinpointing the exact cause is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan.

Dr. Alicia Armitstead examining a male patint for Chiropractic Care for Chronic and Severe Shoulder Pain at the Healing Arts NYC Health and Wellness Center in Manhattan, NY 10017, and Connecticut

When To Seek Chiropractic Care for Shoulder Pain


Shoulder pain can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating conditions, and knowing when to seek chiropractic care is essential for effective treatment. If the pain has persisted for more than a few days without improvement, it may be a sign of an underlying issue that requires professional evaluation.


Experiencing sharp, localized pain during certain movements or while resting is another indicator that chiropractic care might be beneficial. If you notice swelling, redness, or warmth around the shoulder joint, it could suggest inflammation or injury that a chiropractor can address.

Limited range of motion, such as difficulty lifting your arm or reaching overhead, is a common reason to seek professional help. Additionally, if the pain is accompanied by tingling, numbness, or weakness radiating into the arm or fingers, it may indicate nerve involvement, which chiropractors are equipped to treat. Trauma, such as from a fall or accident, that results in immediate or ongoing shoulder pain should not be ignored and warrants timely care. Finally, if over-the-counter pain relievers and home remedies fail to provide relief, it is a clear indication to consult a chiropractor for a comprehensive assessment and a tailored treatment plan.

How Dr. Alicia Armitstead Addresses Shoulder Pain Treatments NYC and CT


My approach to shoulder pain treatments is centered on uncovering and treating the fundamental cause of your discomfort, rather than just managing symptoms. I begin with a thorough evaluation, including a detailed health history and physical examination, to understand the unique factors contributing to your pain. Using a functional medicine lens, we look beyond the joint itself to identify potential systemic issues, such as inflammation or nutritional deficiencies, that may be impacting your recovery.


Treatment plans are highly personalized and may integrate a variety of complementary therapies. These may include advanced soft-tissue techniques to release muscle tension, improve circulation, and break down scar tissue. We also focus on corrective exercises to restore proper movement patterns, strengthen supporting muscles, and enhance joint stability. My goal is to facilitate your body's innate healing capabilities, providing long-term relief and preventing future injuries. This integrative strategy ensures comprehensive recovery, restoring both function and confidence.

What Can Happen if Shoulder Pain is Left Untreated?


Ignoring persistent shoulder pain can lead to a cascade of negative consequences that worsen over time. A minor issue such as tendinitis can progress to a more severe condition, such as a full-thickness rotator cuff tear, which may ultimately require surgical intervention. Chronic inflammation and immobility can lead to the development of frozen shoulder, a painful condition characterized by severe stiffness and a drastic loss of range of motion.


Continued use of a compromised shoulder can also cause compensatory patterns, where you overuse other muscles and joints, leading to secondary pain in your neck, back, and opposite arm. Over time, the constant pain and functional limitations can significantly decrease your quality of life, affecting your sleep, mood, and ability to participate in activities you enjoy. The joint itself may develop degenerative changes, such as arthritis, more quickly. Seeking timely and appropriate care is essential to prevent these complications and ensure a complete recovery.

Contact Dr. Alicia Armitstead to Learn More About Getting Relief From Your Chronic and Severe Shoulder Pain Naturally
Contact Dr. Alicia Armitstead to Learn More About Getting Relief From Your Chronic and Severe Shoulder Pain Naturally

Shoulder pain does not have to be a permanent part of your life or force you to give up the activities you love. By taking a proactive and integrative approach, we can move beyond temporary fixes to find a lasting solution. My practice is dedicated to identifying the specific root cause of your pain and creating a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your body's needs.

We will work together to reduce inflammation, restore mobility, and strengthen the shoulder joint for long-term health and resilience. You deserve to live without the constant burden of pain and physical limitation. If you are ready to regain control and restore function to your shoulder, I encourage you to take the next step. Let’s work together to create a path toward healing and get you back to living your life to the fullest. Contact me today to schedule a consultation and begin your journey toward lasting relief.


Please contact us today.