When you feel pain in your shoulder, it’s natural to assume that the problem lies in the shoulder joint itself. However, this isn’t always the case. Sometimes, what feels like shoulder pain may actually be referred pain - pain that originates in another area of the body but is felt in the shoulder. Understanding this phenomenon is key to receiving the right diagnosis and treatment.
 

What Is Referred Pain?

Referred pain happens when pain signals from one part of the body are misinterpreted by the nervous system as coming from another area. This occurs because multiple nerves share pathways, making it difficult for your brain to pinpoint the true source of discomfort.
 

Common Sources of Referred Shoulder Pain

Not all shoulder pain stems from problems within the shoulder joint itself. In many cases, the true source lies in the neck or upper back. Conditions such as herniated discs, pinched nerves, or arthritis in the cervical spine can send pain signals that radiate into the shoulder and arm.

Similarly, muscle imbalances, poor posture, or misalignments in the upper back can place added stress on surrounding nerves and tissues, leading to discomfort that feels like it originates in the shoulder.
 

Why a Proper Diagnosis Matters

Since referred pain can be a sign of something more serious than a simple muscle strain, it’s essential to seek professional evaluation. Misdiagnosing referred pain as a shoulder injury could delay the correct treatment, allowing underlying conditions to worsen. Dr. Pan can help identify whether the pain is coming from the shoulder joint itself or from another source.
 

How Physical Therapy Can Help

At NYC Empire PT, Dr. Pan performs thorough assessments to get to the root cause of your shoulder pain. If your pain is related to musculoskeletal or nerve issues, we create customized treatment plans that may include:

• Manual therapy to release tension in surrounding tissues

• Postural corrections to reduce nerve compression

• Strengthening exercises to support the neck, back, and shoulder

• Education on lifestyle modifications to reduce stress on the affected areas
 

Uncover the Real Cause of Your Pain

Shoulder pain doesn’t always mean a shoulder injury. By understanding the concept of referred pain, you can take the right steps toward identifying the true cause and finding effective treatment. If you’ve been struggling with persistent shoulder pain, getting the right evaluation could make all the difference.

Don’t let shoulder pain keep you from living life fully. Schedule a consultation with NYC Empire PT to help uncover the root of your discomfort and guide you toward lasting relief. Visit our office in New York, NY, or call (718) 608-7645 to book an appointment today.