Therapist treating a patient at California Oaks Chiropractic

Shoulder Pain Treatment in Murrieta, CA

Many patients come to us after weeks or months of shoulder pain that has slowly worsened. If you are unsure whether your shoulder pain is coming from an injury, posture, or nerve involvement, you are not alone. Shoulder pain can feel confusing, especially when movement becomes restricted or irritated, even without a clear injury.

Dr. Phillip Vournazos, D.C., has treated many patients in Murrieta with shoulder pain related to movement issues, nerve irritation, and joint dysfunction. At California Oaks Chiropractic, care focuses on understanding how the shoulder works with the neck, upper back, and arms, not just where the pain is felt.

Your first visit is centered on listening, careful evaluation, and creating a treatment plan that supports safe, long-term shoulder function. Call  (951) 698-2511 to book an appointment.

What are the Causes of Shoulder pain?

The causes of shoulder pain are seemingly endless, but some of the more common causes of pain in the shoulders are:
  • Neck and upper back tightness
  • Spinal misalignment
  • Arthritis
  • Abnormal patterns of movement
  • Athletic injuries and automobile accidents
While a few of the items on this list may indicate localized swelling in the shoulder joint, more of them point to the spine as the probable source of pain. The nerves that control the shoulder originate in the spine. If the vertebrae in the neck and upper back are compressed or injured, the nerves that innervate the shoulder can be irritated, causing pain. Even a minor spinal misalignment can interrupt communication between the nerves and the shoulder, and a cascade of problems can begin. So, what appears as shoulder pain may actually be referred pain from the spinal column.

Common Symptoms of Shoulder Injury

Due to the wide range of causative factors, shoulder pain and abnormal motion in the joint may develop gradually or come on suddenly. Symptoms of a shoulder injury are occasionally very subtle, but even these can develop into major issues.

Since the shoulder joint is used in the vast majority of activities that we engage in daily, all symptoms involving the shoulder should be monitored carefully and treated promptly to avoid progression of the problem.

Symptoms indicating the need for an immediate evaluation of the shoulder complex include:

  • Shoulder pain that lasts for more than a week
  • Shoulder pain that goes away and then returns frequently
  • Difficulty raising your arm above your head
  • Trouble or pain when carrying objects
  • Pain in the shoulder joint that becomes more pronounced in the evening
  • Any visual signs of damage to the joint, such as bruising or swelling
  • Unusual snapping or clicking sensations in the joint during movement

How Do We Diagnose the Root Cause of Shoulder Pain

When a patient comes in with shoulder pain, we go through a detailed clinical history and an orthopedic exam that includes:

  • Postural assessment
  • Shoulder range of motion testing
  • Muscle strength and flexibility evaluation
  • Joint movement assessment
  • Neck and upper back evaluation

We also take X-rays to identify fractures or underlying structural damage, which helps us get a clearer picture of what is causing the pain.

Shoulder Pain Treatment Plan

Each shoulder pain treatment plan is customized based on exam findings and functional needs. Treatment may include:

  • Gentle joint adjustments when appropriate
  • Techniques to improve shoulder and upper spine movement
  • Soft tissue support for surrounding muscles
  • Postural and ergonomic guidance
  • Movement and activity recommendations
  • Stretching and strengthening support

The goal is to restore balanced movement and protect the shoulder during recovery.

Shoulder Pain Patient Case Studies

Torn Shoulder Tendon Treated and Full Range of Motion Restored 

Patient Information: An 84-year-old woman came in with trauma to her shoulder after a fall.

Symptoms: She was not able to raise her hand above her head at all.

Diagnosis: Dr. Phillip went through a detailed clinical history and an orthopedic exam. We also took images. We identified that she had torn her supraspinatus tendon in the shoulder.

Treatment: We performed shockwave therapy on her affected shoulder.

Outcome: After about four sessions, she had a full range of motion in her shoulder. Pain was significantly reduced. By the end of her eighth shockwave session, she was back to normal.

 

Shoulder Fracture Managed Using Shockwave Therapy 

Patient Information: An elderly man with low bone density came in after a fall from a dog attack.

Symptoms: He fell on his shoulder and fractured his humerus bone. He had bruising and a limited range of motion in his shoulder.

Diagnosis: We took an X-ray and identified the fracture.

Treatment: We sent him to an orthopedist, where he got surgery and had a pin put into the shoulder. Following the surgery, we did shockwave therapy to help with the healing of the bone and to help the scar tissue heal correctly.

Outcome: The patient reported that shockwave therapy helped with his recovery. 

Shoulder Pain Patient Testimonials & Reviews

Verified Google review from patientJasmine K Saleh sharing her positive experience

Jasmine K Saleh

I was in need of a serious adjustment & Dr. K and his staff were absolutely wonderful to work with. They took me in the same day I called, within 10 min I was booked and, in the office...

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Verified Google review from patient Denise  sharing her positive experience

Denise

Just WOW! Everyone at California Oaks Chiropractic in Murrieta was just professional and very nice. I felt immediately comfortable. Dr. K was very easy to talk to and made me feel at ease...

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Verified Google review from patient Abby Ngo sharing her positive experience .

Abby Ngo

I had a great experience with Dr. K-this is top-notch chiropractic care! From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed, listened to, and well taken care of. Dr. K combines strong knowledge...

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Verified Google review from patient Rick Scherer sharing her positive experience .

Rick Scherer

My family and I have been seeing Dr. K for over 20 years, and I can't imagine going anywhere else. From the moment you walk in, you're treated like family. The office staff is incredibly friendly...

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Verified Google review from patient Sandra Guzman sharing her positive experience

Sandra Guzman

If you are looking for a chiropractor with a lot of knowledge, friendly staff who feels like family, and an overall welcoming environment, this is your place! Dr. K has been vital in helping my husband and I...

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Verified Google review from patient Lorretta Marcum sharing her positive experience

Lorretta Marcum

This morning I was lucky enough to see a Daphne! Oh my heavens do I feel 1000 x better!! Then I saw Dr. Chris for an adjustment and boy does he know his stuff got rid of my sciatica pain instantly...

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Book a Consultation for Shoulder Pain Treatment in Murrieta

California Oaks Chiropractic has successfully treated many patients with shoulder pain.  

If shoulder pain is limiting your movement, sleep, or workouts, an evaluation can help clarify what is driving your symptoms and what can be done conservatively. 

Call  (951) 698-2511 or book online using the booking tool below.

Shoulder Pain Patient FAQs

Can chiropractic help frozen shoulder or severe stiffness?
Chiropractic care can support joint mobility and surrounding movement patterns, especially when stiffness limits daily activity.

Can a chiropractor help a pinched nerve in my shoulder?
Shoulder pain related to nerve irritation often involves the neck or upper spine. Chiropractic care addresses these contributing areas.

Should I see a doctor or chiropractor for shoulder pain?
Evaluation is recommended when pain persists, movement is limited, or daily activities are affected. Chiropractic care focuses on conservative treatment and movement assessment.

What causes shoulder pain to worsen over time?
Poor posture, limited movement, and compensation patterns can increase strain if left unaddressed.

What are the home remedies for shoulder pain?
Home care can help manage symptoms between visits:

  • Rest from aggravating movements
  • Ice or heat as tolerated
  • Gentle shoulder stretching
  • Posture awareness during sitting and standing
  • Avoid heavy lifting during flare-ups

Home care supports comfort but does not address underlying mechanics.

What if I have had shoulder surgery already?
Post-surgical shoulder pain or stiffness can often be supported with gentle care focused on mobility and function, once cleared by your surgeon.

Content Reviewed by

Dr. Phillip Mario Vournazos at California Oaks Chiropractic
Dr. Phillip Vournazos, D.C.
Doctor of Chiropractic