There is an association between a pinched nerve and shoulder nerve pain which can have debilitating and persistent symptoms. At Vitalis Physiotherapy, our treatment of a pinched nerve and shoulder pain aims to:
Within the shoulder there are multiple nerves forming a nerve complex, some of which come from the neck (cervical spine). A pinched or entrapped shoulder nerves occurs when a shoulder structure presses on or compress these nerves coming down from the neck – a pinched nerve within the shoulder can cause shoulder pain stemming from the neck and can also be referred to ascervical radiculopathy. Nerves can also become ‘entrapped’ when muscles form tightly around shoulder nerves or if adhesions develop between nearby tissue and the nerve.
These nerve injuries often disrupt neural signals from the brain, also affecting range of movement and pain, felt both at the site and referred pain in nearby structures (e.g. pain down the arm).
Shoulder nerve compression is usually caused by pressure or entrapment of either the shoulder nerve complex (mainly thesuprascapularnerve) or cervical nerves. This pressure can stem from bone or disk protrusions, or inflamed muscle and tissue. Pinched nerves within the shoulder are usually linked to cervicalnerve root compression– common causes of pinched nerves include:
If you suspect you have a pinched or entrapped nerve and have pain in your shoulder, it is important to see a medical professional. You will likely be referred for imaging tests to determine the origin and extent of the injury or to rule out a differential diagnosis.
Physical therapy is highly beneficial in reducing nerve pain and inflammation. At Vitalis Physiotherapy, we tailor a unique treatment plan to aid in your recovery through:
If the pain and reduced movement is severe, driving and strenuous activity should be avoided. Your physiotherapist may also advise heat or ice application, rest and if necessary, anti-inflammatory pain medication. Additionally, they might recommend for you to use neck support or a suitable pillow.
Are you in pain caused by pinched or entrapped shoulder nerves? Contact Vitalis Physiotherapy now to book in your treatment. Call our friendly team on 0410 559 856. We’d love to help.
