Shoulder pain can start suddenly or slowly build over time, making everyday things like lifting, reaching, or sleeping uncomfortable. Many people live with shoulder pain without realizing it may be connected to posture, stress, overuse, or even upper back pain between the shoulder blades.
Poor posture at work is a major cause. Sitting with rounded shoulders all day puts extra strain on shoulder and upper back muscles, leading to stiffness and pain. Muscle strain from repetitive movements or heavy lifting can also overload the shoulder and cause lingering soreness. Stress plays a role too—tight shoulders and neck tension can create pain that feels hard to shake.
In some cases, shoulder pain comes from rotator cuff injuries or problems in the neck and upper spine. These issues can send pain into the shoulder, making it feel like the shoulder itself is the problem. That’s why treating only the painful spot often doesn’t bring lasting relief.
Physical therapy helps by finding the real cause of shoulder pain and treating it with guided exercises, hands-on care, and posture training. With the right care, many people regain movement, reduce pain, and feel confident using their shoulder again.
👉 Learn more about shoulder pain causes and treatment options.
