Why Does My Shoulder Hurt?

"Why Does My Shoulder Hurt?" This simple sentence can mean a dozen different things. Is the pain coming from a tired muscle, deep within the socket of the joint, or an irritated nerve? As Physical Therapists, our first job is to play detective. What is the root cause of the pain because each source requires a different treatment plan.

Here's a simplified guide to help empower you to start decoding the source of your pain:

#1 MUSCLE Pain: How it Feels: Usually a dull, deep ache. The area is often tender to the touch and you may feel muscle "knots." How it Behaves: Symptoms get worse when you use that specific muscle, and often feels better with rest, heat, or gentle stretching. You can usually point your finger right to where your pain is.

#2 JOINT Pain: How it Feels: Deep, internal ache that is described as stiff. It can become sharp with specific movements like squatting or reaching overhead. How it Behaves: Morning stiffness that gets better with movement throughout the day. The pain is felt deep within the joint making it difficult to point to a specific point of pain.

#3 NERVE Pain: How it Feels: Sharp, shooting, burning, tingling, numbness "pins and needles" or "electrical" type sensations. How it Behaves: Pain travels or radiates along a clear path. it can happen unexpectedly, even when you're not moving.

Now what gets tricky is that many of these overlap. An issue in your joint can cause your muscles to spasm, but it could also pinch a nerve. If you're unsure what is the root cause of your pain, we're here for you. No MRI, x-ray or referral needed.

We have EVEN more community events coming up!!!

Bowel Dysfunction Webinar October 27, 2025 @ 6:00 PM Dr. Madison Barany, Pelvic Health Specialist $50 for 1 hour interactive online workshop Email Justin [at] capeconciergept.com to sign up.

Telemedicine with Dr. Elizabeth Speed OB/GYN Menopause Society Certified Practitioner Telemedicine Appointments for Pharmacological Intervention To Schedule: https://www.capeconciergept.com/contact

Upcoming Holiday Hours We are OPEN on Indiginous Peoples Day & Veterans Days We are CLOSED Thanksgiving & Friday after. We are CLOSED the week of Christmas & New Years. (12/25-1/1) If you have Family coming home for any holidays, SCHEDULE NOW!

# Book an appointment online at www.capeconciergept.com today and experience the transformative care we offer.

Make sure to schedule your physical therapy, massage and wellness visits to ensure they are first in your calander and always prioritized. Please share this newsletter with a friend that is ready to skip the waiting room and start receiving the care the deserve.

As always, we're immensely grateful for your trust and support. Thank you for being an integral part of the CCPT family.

With gratitude and excitement, Your Cape Concierge PT Team

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