Can a Chiropractor Help with Shoulder Impingement? Complete Treatment Guide

Yes, chiropractors effectively treat shoulder impingement through spinal and shoulder adjustments that restore proper joint mechanics, soft tissue therapy to reduce inflammation and adhesions, and personalized corrective exercises that strengthen the rotator cuff. This holistic approach addresses posture, muscle imbalance, and spinal alignment. Most patients improve within 4–6 weeks.

Introduction

Shoulder impingement is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain I see in practice. It often starts quietly. A little discomfort when reaching overhead. Trouble sleeping on one side. Gradual weakness when lifting or throwing. 

Left untreated, it can progress into chronic pain, rotator cuff damage, and even surgery.

With 25+ years of experience treating shoulder conditions in Franklin, Cool Springs, and Brentwood, I have helped hundreds of patients restore shoulder function and avoid surgery through comprehensive chiropractic care. 

Shoulder impingement rarely exists as an isolated shoulder problem. In most cases, it is the result of poor posture, spinal misalignment, muscle imbalance, and faulty movement patterns that place excessive stress on the rotator cuff.

This guide explains exactly how chiropractic care helps shoulder impingement, what treatment looks like, and what results you can expect.

In this article, you will learn:

• What shoulder impingement is and how it develops
• Why posture and spinal alignment matter
• How chiropractic care treats the root cause
• Specific techniques used in treatment
• How long recovery typically takes
• How chiropractic compares to other treatments
• When surgery may be necessary
• How to prevent shoulder impingement from returning

Most patients with shoulder impingement experience significant improvement within 4–6 weeks of chiropractic care. Clinical outcomes show that roughly 70–80%of patients avoid surgery entirely when conservative care is started early.

“The shoulder is incredibly complex, and impingement rarely happens in isolation. I often find that spinal misalignment, poor posture, and muscle imbalances throughout the upper body contribute to shoulder problems. Addressing the whole kinetic chain is what makes chiropractic care so effective for lasting relief.” – Dr. Jason Crist

Understanding Shoulder Impingement

What Is Shoulder Impingement?

Shoulder impingement, also called subacromial impingement syndrome, occurs when the soft tissues of the shoulder become pinched during arm movement. 

Most commonly, this involves the rotator cuff tendons and the subacromial bursa being compressed between the humeral head and the acromion, which is the bony roof of the shoulder blade.

As the arm lifts, especially overhead or out to the side, the space between these structures should remain open and smooth. When that space narrows, friction increases. 

Over time, this repeated compression irritates the tendons and bursa, leading to inflammation, pain, weakness, and loss of normal shoulder motion.

Shoulder impingement is not usually caused by one sudden injury. Instead, it develops gradually as poor mechanics and posture place ongoing stress on the shoulder. 

Many patients are surprised to learn that the shoulder itself is often reacting to problems elsewhere, particularly in the neck, upper back, and shoulder blade positioning.

Left untreated, shoulder impingement can progress from mild irritation to chronic inflammation, rotator cuff tendinopathy, partial tears, or even full-thickness tears.

Key Anatomy Involved in Shoulder Impingement

Understanding the anatomy helps explain why shoulder impingement is so common and why proper movement is critical.

Rotator cuff muscles

• The supraspinatus, which is most commonly affected and helps lift the arm
  
• Infraspinatus and teres minor, which control external rotation and shoulder stability
  
• Subscapularis, which provides internal rotation and anterior stability
  

Subacromial space
This is the small space between the top of the humerus and the acromion. Even slight changes in posture or shoulder mechanics can significantly reduce this space.

Acromion of the scapula
The shape and position of the acromion influence how much room the rotator cuff has during movement. Poor posture can tilt the acromion downward, increasing compression.

Subacromial bursa
This fluid-filled sac reduces friction between the rotator cuff and the acromion. When irritated, it becomes inflamed and painful, especially at night.

Long head of the biceps tendon
This tendon runs through the shoulder joint and can also become irritated with impingement, contributing to front-of-the-shoulder pain.

How Shoulder Impingement Develops

Shoulder impingement usually develops over months or even years. It is often the result of cumulative stress rather than a single traumatic event.

Common contributing factors include:

Repetitive overhead activities
Jobs, sports, or workouts that involve frequent overhead reaching gradually narrow the subacromial space. Painters, swimmers, tennis players, weightlifters, and CrossFit athletes are common examples.

Forward head posture and rounded shoulders
Modern desk work and prolonged phone use shift the head forward and round the shoulders. This posture alters scapular positioning and tilts the acromion downward, creating constant compression on the rotator cuff.

Weak rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers
When the small stabilizing muscles of the shoulder are weak, the humeral head moves excessively during arm motion. This poor control increases tendon irritation.

Tight chest and lat muscles
Tight pectoral and lat muscles pull the shoulders forward and down, further reducing subacromial space and limiting proper shoulder blade motion.

Poor thoracic spine mobility
Restricted movement in the upper back prevents normal shoulder blade rotation. Without proper thoracic extension, the shoulder must compensate, increasing impingement risk.

Cervical and upper back misalignment
Neck and upper spine misalignment can alter nerve signaling to shoulder muscles, leading to weakness, poor coordination, and faulty movement patterns.

Previous shoulder or neck injuries
Old injuries often create compensation patterns that overload the shoulder over time, even if the original injury seemed to heal.

In many cases, shoulder impingement is the final result of multiple small dysfunctions working together. 

This is why treating only the shoulder often provides temporary relief, while addressing posture, spinal alignment, and muscle balance leads to lasting improvement.

Common Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder impingement symptoms often begin subtly and worsen over time. Many patients ignore early warning signs until daily activities become difficult or painful.

The most common symptoms include:

Pain when lifting the arm overhead or out to the side
This is often the first noticeable symptom. Pain typically occurs between shoulder height and full elevation, sometimes called a painful arc. 

Activities like reaching into a cabinet, lifting weights, or washing hair become uncomfortable.

Pain when reaching behind the back
Reaching to put on a jacket, fasten a seatbelt, or tuck in a shirt often reproduces pain. This movement places the shoulder in a position where the rotator cuff is more vulnerable to compression.

Night pain
Many patients report worsening pain at night, especially when lying on the affected shoulder. Inflammation of the bursa often increases discomfort during sleep and can disrupt rest.

Weakness with lifting or throwing
As the rotator cuff becomes irritated, muscle strength and endurance decline. Patients may notice difficulty lifting objects, throwing, pushing, or performing overhead activities they once handled easily.

Clicking, popping, or catching sensations
Abnormal shoulder mechanics can cause audible or palpable sensations during movement. While not always painful, these symptoms often signal joint dysfunction and tendon irritation.

Gradual onset rather than sudden injury
Unlike fractures or acute tears, shoulder impingement usually develops slowly. Symptoms may come and go at first, then gradually become more frequent and intense.

Many patients adapt unknowingly by changing how they move, which can delay proper diagnosis while allowing the condition to worsen.

Shoulder Impingement Progression

Shoulder impingement typically progresses through distinct stages if left untreated. Understanding which stage you’re in helps set realistic expectations for recovery.

STAGE	DURATION	SYMPTOMS	FUNCTIONAL IMPACT	CHIROPRACTIC SUCCESS RATE
Stage 1 (Acute)	0-6 weeks	Pain with overhead activity, mild inflammation, no weakness, range of motion mostly intact	Minimal limitation, some activities painful	85-90%
Stage 2 (Chronic)	6 weeks-6 months	Persistent pain, night pain, mild weakness, stiffness, compensation patterns emerging	Difficulty with work/sports, compensatory patterns developing	70-80%
Stage 3 (Advanced)	6+ months	Constant pain, significant weakness, limited range of motion, possible rotator cuff tears or degenerative changes	Daily activities severely limited, surgery often considered	50-60%

Early intervention during Stage 1 or early Stage 2 produces the best outcomes and significantly reduces the risk of surgery.

Types of Shoulder Impingement

Not all shoulder impingement is the same. Identifying the specific type helps guide effective treatment.

TYPE	LOCATION	COMMON CAUSES	WHO GETS IT MOST	PRIMARY SYMPTOMS
Subacromial (Most Common)	Between acromion and rotator cuff	Poor posture, repetitive overhead, muscle imbalance	Desk workers, painters, general population	Pain with overhead reaching, night pain
Internal	Inside joint (rotator cuff against labrum)	Overhead athletics, shoulder instability	Baseball pitchers, swimmers, volleyball players	Back of shoulder pain during throwing
Rotator Cuff	Direct tendon compression	Chronic overuse, weakness, poor mechanics	Athletes, manual laborers, 40+ age group	Weakness, difficulty lifting, gradual onset

Understanding the type and stage of impingement allows for more precise, effective treatment and better long-term outcomes.

“Most shoulder impingement I see is really a posture problem. Forward head posture and rounded shoulders from desk work change the angle of the shoulder blade and create the perfect environment for impingement.” – Dr. Jason Crist

Quick Self-Assessment: Do You Have Shoulder Impingement?

This simple self-assessment can help you determine whether your shoulder pain may be related to impingement. It is not a diagnosis, but it can guide you on whether professional evaluation is recommended.

Answer yes or no to each question below:

• Do you feel pain when reaching overhead, such as into a cabinet or while exercising?
  
• Do you feel pain when reaching behind your back to put on a jacket or fasten a seatbelt?
  
• Do you experience night pain, especially when lying on the affected shoulder?
  
• Do you notice weakness when lifting objects, throwing, or performing overhead activities?
  
• Did your symptoms develop gradually rather than from a sudden injury?
  
• Do you feel clicking, popping, catching, or grinding during shoulder movement?
  
• Do you have forward head posture or rounded shoulders, especially when sitting or using a computer?
  
• Do you have a desk job or perform repetitive overhead work or sports activities?
  

How to Interpret Your Results

Three to four YES answers
This suggests possible early or mild shoulder impingement. At this stage, addressing posture, movement patterns, and muscle balance can prevent progression and long-term damage.

Five to six YES answers
This indicates moderate shoulder impingement. Symptoms are likely affecting daily activities or sleep. Professional care is strongly recommended to restore normal mechanics and prevent rotator cuff injury.

Seven or more YES answers
This suggests significant shoulder impingement. Pain, weakness, and restricted motion are likely present. Comprehensive treatment is needed to avoid chronic degeneration or surgical intervention.

Why Early Action Matters

Shoulder impingement responds best to conservative care when addressed early. Chiropractic treatment focuses on correcting posture, improving spinal and shoulder joint mechanics, reducing soft tissue tension, and strengthening weak muscles. 

When treated before advanced damage occurs, most patients experience meaningful improvement and return to normal activity without surgery.

If this assessment raises concerns, a thorough evaluation can identify the exact cause of your shoulder pain and guide an effective treatment plan.

Can a Chiropractor Help with Shoulder Impingement?

Yes. Chiropractic care is highly effective for shoulder impingement because it addresses the mechanical causes rather than just masking symptoms.

The Three Pillars of Chiropractic Treatment

Pillar One: Manual Adjustments

Spinal Adjustments
Cervical and thoracic adjustments restore proper nerve function to the shoulder muscles, improve posture, and reduce abnormal movement patterns that contribute to impingement.

Shoulder Joint Adjustments
Mobilization of the glenohumeral and acromioclavicular joints improves joint mechanics and helps restore normal shoulder motion.

Rib Adjustments
First rib and upper rib restrictions commonly affect shoulder blade movement and must be addressed for full recovery.

These adjustments help increase subacromial space, reduce compression, improve circulation, and restore muscle coordination.

Pillar Two: Soft Tissue Therapy

• Myofascial release for tight chest, rotator cuff, and upper back muscles
• Active Release Technique to break down adhesions
• Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization for chronic scar tissue
• Trigger point therapy to reduce referred pain
• Cupping to improve circulation and reduce inflammation

Soft tissue work is essential for restoring normal muscle length and reducing pain.

Pillar Three: Corrective Exercises

• Rotator cuff strengthening
• Scapular stabilization exercises
• Postural correction drills
• Thoracic mobility exercises
• Stretching for tight chest, lats, and posterior shoulder

Corrective exercises prevent recurrence and create long-term stability.

Here’s a summary of the complete treatment approach: 

TREATMENT TYPE	SPECIFIC TECHNIQUES	PRIMARY GOAL	FREQUENCY	TIMELINE
Spinal Adjustments	Cervical, thoracic, rib mobilization	Restore nerve function, improve posture	2-3X weekly initially	4-8 weeks
Shoulder Adjustments	Glenohumeral, AC joint mobilization	Restore joint mechanics, increase space	2-3X weekly initially	4-8 weeks
Soft Tissue Therapy	Myofascial release, ART, IASTM, trigger point	Break up adhesions, reduce inflammation	Every visit	6-10 weeks
Corrective Exercises	Rotator cuff strengthening, scapular stabilization, stretching	Build strength, prevent recurrence	Daily at home	8-12 weeks

This multi-modal approach addresses both symptoms and root causes for lasting improvement.

Struggling with shoulder impingement pain? Schedule a comprehensive evaluation to identify root causes and create your personalized treatment plan.

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Chiropractic vs Other Treatment Options

Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free approach that treats the entire upper quarter. 

Understanding how chiropractic care compares to other treatments helps you make informed decisions about your shoulder health. 

TREATMENT	SUCCESS RATE	HOW IT WORKS	ADDRESSES ROOT CAUSE?	INVASIVENESS	COST (FRANKLIN, TN)
Chiropractic Care	70-80%	Adjustments, soft tissue, exercises	Yes (holistic)	Non-invasive	$60-100/visit, 12-18 visits
Physical Therapy	60-70%	Exercises, modalities	Partial (exercises only)	Non-invasive	$80-150/visit, 12-20 visits
Cortisone Injections	50-60% short-term	Reduces inflammation temporarily	No (symptom management)	Minimally invasive	$200-500/injection, 1-3 per year
NSAIDs/Pain Meds	40-50%	Masks pain temporarily	No	Non-invasive	$10-50/month
Surgery	80-90% (when appropriate)	Removes bone spurs, repairs tears	Yes (structural)	Invasive	$15,000-30,000+

“The biggest advantage chiropractic care has is that we address the entire upper quarter. When we correct cervical alignment, release tight chest muscles, and strengthen weak scapular stabilizers, we treat the cause of impingement, not just the pain.” – Dr. Jason Crist

What to Expect from Chiropractic Treatment

Initial Evaluation

Your first visit includes a full health history, posture analysis, spinal assessment, shoulder examination, orthopedic testing, and review of any imaging.

Treatment Timeline

PHASE	DURATION	VISIT FREQUENCY	PRIMARY FOCUS	EXPECTED IMPROVEMENTS
Phase 1: Pain Relief	Weeks 1-2	3x weekly	Reduce inflammation, restore mobility	30-40% pain reduction, improved sleep
Phase 2: Corrective Care	Weeks 3-6	2x weekly	Strengthen rotator cuff, correct posture	60-70% improvement, return to most activities
Phase 3: Stabilization	Weeks 7-12	1x weekly	Build strength, prevent recurrence	80-90% improvement, full function returning
Phase 4: Maintenance	Ongoing	Monthly or as needed	Maintain results, prevent flare-ups	Sustained improvement

Most patients report noticeable improvement within the first few weeks.

Typical Visit

Each visit includes reassessment, hands-on treatment, corrective exercise coaching, and home care guidance.

Success Rates and Outcomes

Clinical experience shows:

• 70–80%achieve significant improvement
• 60–70% avoid surgery
• Most reach 80–90% pain reduction within 8–12 weeks

Best outcomes occur with early care, good posture habits, and compliance with home exercises.

Want to avoid surgery and restore full shoulder function? 70-80% of our patients do well with comprehensive chiropractic care. 

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📍 Franklin, Cool Springs & Brentwood, TN

Prevention and Long-Term Management

Preventing shoulder impingement recurrence requires ongoing attention to the factors that caused it initially. 

STRATEGY	FREQUENCY	PURPOSE	EXPECTED BENEFIT
Postural Awareness	Continuous	Reduce shoulder compression	Prevents recurrence
Rotator Cuff Exercises	3x weekly	Maintain strength	Reduces injury risk 60-70%
Chest/Lat Stretching	Daily	Improve shoulder positioning	Maintains flexibility
Ergonomic Workspace	Continuous	Reduce forward head posture	Prevents compensatory patterns
Monthly Chiropractic	Monthly	Maintain alignment	Catches issues early

• Consistency with these strategies reduces recurrence risk from 30-40% down to 10-20%.

When Surgery May Be Necessary

Surgery may be recommended for complete rotator cuff tears, severe bone spurs, or advanced impingement that fails conservative care.

“Even when surgery is necessary, chiropractic care plays an important role before and after surgery by improving outcomes and preventing compensatory problems.” – Dr. Jason Crist

Shoulder Impingement Treatment in Franklin, TN

Crist Chiropractic provides comprehensive shoulder impingement care with 25+ years of clinical experience. Patients receive individualized treatment plans, evidence-based techniques, and guidance for long term results.

Conclusion

Shoulder impingement does not have to lead to surgery or long-term pain. Chiropractic care offers a proven, holistic solution that addresses posture, spinal alignment, muscle balance, and joint mechanics. When treated early, most patients recover fully and return to normal activity without injections or surgery.

If shoulder pain is limiting your daily life, schedule an evaluation and get answers.

Don’t let shoulder impingement limit your daily activities. Get expert evaluation and treatment addressing the root cause, not just masking pain. 

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Crist Chiropractic | Franklin, Cool Springs & Brentwood, TN Tennessee Chiropractor of the Year | 25+ Years Treating Shoulder Conditions 

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Frequently Asked Questions About Chiropractic Care for Shoulder Impingement

Understanding Effectiveness

Can a chiropractor help with shoulder impingement?

Yes, chiropractors effectively treat shoulder impingement with 70-80% success rates.

How chiropractic helps: 

• Spinal adjustments restore nerve function and improve posture 
• Shoulder joint mobilization increases the subacromial space 
• Soft tissue therapy breaks up adhesions and scar tissue 
• Corrective exercises strengthen rotator cuff muscles 
• Postural training addresses forward head position

Most patients see meaningful improvement within 4-6 weeks, with many avoiding surgery when treatment begins early.

Can a chiropractor help with rotator cuff impingement?

Yes, especially when no complete tear is present. Success rates are 75-85% for Stage 1 and Stage 2 impingement.

Treatment focuses on:  

• Increasing subacromial space through posture correction 
• Strengthening weak rotator cuff muscles (particularly supraspinatus) 
• Releasing tight chest and lat muscles pulling shoulders forward 
• Improving scapular mechanics and stability 
• Addressing cervical spine restrictions affecting shoulder coordination

If imaging shows full-thickness tears, chiropractic care can still help manage symptoms, though surgical consultation may be needed for large tears.

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Can chiropractic adjustment help shoulder impingement?

Yes, adjustments are a critical component of effective treatment.

Cervical and thoracic adjustments: 

• Restore nerve function to shoulder muscles 
• Improve forward head posture reducing compression 
• Correct faulty movement patterns

Shoulder joint adjustments: 

• Restore normal joint mechanics 
• Increase range of motion 
• Improve shoulder blade positioning

Rib adjustments: 

• Release first rib restrictions (commonly limit shoulder blade movement) 
• Essential for complete recovery

These adjustments work with soft tissue therapy and exercises to address root causes, not just symptoms.

Does chiropractic help shoulder impingement better than other treatments?

Chiropractic offers unique advantages by addressing both joint mechanics AND soft tissue simultaneously.

Success rate comparison: 

Chiropractic: 70-80% lasting improvement 

Physical therapy: 60-70% (doesn’t address spine/joints) 

Cortisone injections: 50-60% short-term (wears off in 3-6 months)

Why chiropractic works when other treatments don’t: 

• Addresses cervical spine and rib restrictions PT typically misses 
• Manual adjustments restore mechanics exercise alone cannot fix 
• Whole-body approach treats posture and spinal contributions 
• No injection risks or tendon weakening

Treatment Process and Timeline

How long does chiropractic treatment take for shoulder impingement?

Most patients require 8-12 weeks with this progressive timeline:

Weeks 1-2: Pain relief phase 

• 3× weekly visits (6 total) 
• Focus: Reduce inflammation, restore initial mobility 
• Expected improvement: 30-40%

Weeks 3-6: Corrective care phase 

2× weekly visits (8 total) 

Focus: Break up scar tissue, begin strengthening 

Expected improvement: 60-70%

Weeks 7-12: Stabilization phase 

• 1× weekly visits (6 total) 
• Focus: Build strength, prevent recurrence 
• Expected improvement: 80-90%

Total: 20-24 visits over 8-12 weeks

Timeline varies based on severity (Stage 1 resolves faster), compliance with home exercises, workplace ergonomics, and presence of rotator cuff damage.

What happens during a chiropractic session for shoulder impingement?

Each 25-30 minute session includes:

Progress assessment (5 min): 

• Range of motion testing • Strength evaluation 
• Pain scale check 
• Functional improvement review

Spinal adjustments (10 min): 

• Cervical spine (nerve function, posture) 
• Thoracic spine (upper back mobility) 
• Rib mobilization (especially first rib)

Shoulder adjustments (5 min): 

• Glenohumeral joint mobilization 
• AC joint work

Soft tissue therapy (10 min): 

• Active Release Technique 
• Myofascial release 
• Trigger point therapy 
• Instrument-assisted mobilization (if needed)

Exercise coaching (5 min): 

• Form review 
• Progression guidance 
• Activity modifications

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Is chiropractic treatment painful for shoulder impingement?

Treatment discomfort is generally minimal.

Spinal and shoulder adjustments: 

• Typically painless 
• May hear popping sounds (gas release from joint) 
• Often feel immediate relief

Soft tissue therapy: 

• Can be temporarily uncomfortable (4-6/10 discomfort) 
• Lasts only during treatment (5-10 minutes) 
• Described as “good hurt” or therapeutic pressure

Post-treatment soreness: 

• Common for 24-48 hours after first few sessions 
• Similar to post-workout soreness 
• Normal healing response

Home exercises: 

• Should cause mild fatigue, not sharp pain

If treatment causes severe pain or worsens symptoms, inform your chiropractor immediately for technique modification.

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Comparisons with Other Treatments

Is chiropractic better than physical therapy for shoulder impingement?

Both can be effective with some key differences.

Chiropractic advantages: 

• Addresses cervical spine and rib restrictions (PT typically doesn’t) 
• Includes joint adjustments restoring shoulder mechanics 
• Corrects postural issues from spine 
• Often faster initial improvement

PT advantages: 

• May have more equipment for intensive strengthening 
• Specialized modalities 
• Sometimes better insurance coverage

Success rates: 

Chiropractic: 70-80% vs Physical therapy: 60-70%

Many patients succeed with chiropractic after PT failed because the spinal component was never addressed. 

At Crist Chiropractic, we provide comprehensive care including exercises, making separate PT often unnecessary.

Should I try chiropractic or get a cortisone injection?

Try chiropractic care first for 6-8 weeks.

Cortisone limitations: 

• Only reduces inflammation temporarily 
• Symptoms return in 3-6 months for most patients 
• Doesn’t address joint mechanics or posture 
• Weakens tendons with repeated use 
• Limited to 3-4 injections per year

Chiropractic advantages: 

• Addresses root causes for lasting results 
• Strengthens tissues rather than weakening them 
• No injection risks 
• Provides prevention tools

Recommended approach: Try comprehensive chiropractic first. If inadequate improvement after 8 weeks, cortisone can provide temporary relief while continuing rehabilitation.

Specific Concerns

Can chiropractic help chronic shoulder impingement?

Yes, though chronic cases (6-12+ months) have lower success rates: 60-70% vs 85-90% for acute cases.

Why chronic cases are harder: 

• Scar tissue more established 
• Compensatory patterns deeply ingrained 
• Possible rotator cuff degeneration 
• Discouragement from previous failed treatments

However, many “chronic” cases improve because: 

• Cervical spine component never addressed 
• Comprehensive soft tissue therapy not performed 
• Posture never corrected

Treatment requires longer timeline (12-16 weeks vs 8-10 weeks) and more aggressive soft tissue work. Don’t assume conservative options are exhausted until trying comprehensive chiropractic care.

Can chiropractic help if I have bone spurs?

Yes, though results depend on spur severity.

Small bone spurs: Often respond well because impingement isn’t purely mechanical. Improving shoulder mechanics and posture often provides significant relief despite spurs being present.

Large bone spurs: May require surgical removal if conservative care fails after 12 weeks and spurs cause severe mechanical impingement.

Chiropractic helps by: 

Increasing subacromial space through posture correction 

• Improving shoulder blade mechanics 
• Reducing inflammation and compensation patterns 
• Optimizing pre-surgical and post-surgical outcomes

Will shoulder impingement come back after treatment?

Recurrence is possible if underlying factors aren’t maintained.

Recurrence rates: 

Without maintenance: 30-40% within 1 year 

With proper maintenance: 10-20%

Prevention requires:

Monthly or quarterly chiropractic adjustments 

• Continuing rotator cuff exercises 3× weekly 
• Maintaining proper posture (especially at work) 
• Stretching chest and lats regularly 
• Addressing symptoms early if they return

Think of it like dental care; regular checkups prevent small problems from becoming big ones. If symptoms return, early intervention (2-3 visits) usually resolves quickly.

Practical Questions

How much does chiropractic treatment cost for shoulder impingement?

In Franklin, TN:

Initial evaluation: $100-150 • 45-60 minutes comprehensive assessment

Follow-up visits: $60-100 per visit • 25-30 minutes treatment

Typical program: $1,400-2,600 total • 20-24 visits over 8-12 weeks

Maintenance: $60-100/month after initial program

Insurance: Most plans cover chiropractic with copays of $20-50/visit. We accept most major insurers.

Does insurance cover chiropractic for shoulder impingement?

Yes, most insurance plans cover chiropractic treatment for shoulder impingement as medically necessary.

Coverage typically includes:

• 12-30 visits per year 
• Copays $20-50/visit

We verify benefits before treatment, file claims for you, and provide necessary documentation. Some plans require referral—we handle that process.

Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor for shoulder pain?

No, chiropractors are portal-of-entry providers—no referral needed. You can schedule directly.

However: 

• Some insurance plans require referrals for coverage (check your plan) 
• If you have imaging (X-rays, MRI), bring reports and images 
• If symptoms suggest serious pathology, your chiropractor will refer appropriately

When should I see a chiropractor for shoulder impingement?

See a chiropractor when: 

• Pain with overhead reaching lasting 2+ weeks 
• Night pain affecting sleep 
• Weakness with daily activities
• Clicking or catching sensations 
• Forward head posture or rounded shoulders 
• Desk job or repetitive overhead work

Early intervention matters: Stage 1 has an 85-90% success rate vs 50-60% for Stage 3.

Seek medical evaluation immediately for: 

• Sudden severe pain after trauma
• Inability to move shoulder 
• Visible deformity 
• Numbness/tingling down arm 
• Fever with shoulder pain (possible infection)

What if chiropractic doesn’t help my shoulder impingement?

If you’ve completed 8-12 weeks of comprehensive chiropractic care without meaningful improvement (at least 40% pain reduction), this may indicate:

• Advanced rotator cuff damage requiring MRI 
• Complete tears needing surgical repair 
• Significant bone spurs causing mechanical impingement 
• Other underlying pathology

At that point, referral to orthopedist for advanced imaging and surgical consultation is appropriate.

We track progress objectively at every visit. If you’re not improving after reasonable trial, we’ll discuss other options honestly. Your best outcome is always our priority, even if that means referring elsewhere.

Can chiropractic help after failed cortisone injection?

Yes, many patients seek chiropractic after cortisone provided only temporary relief.

How chiropractic helps post-injection: 

• Wait 1-2 weeks after injection before starting treatment 
• Address root causes the injection didn’t fix (scar tissue, joint dysfunction, posture) 
• Strengthen tendons weakened by cortisone • Prevent need for additional injections

Many patients come after 2-3 failed injections when an orthopedist recommends surgery, chiropractic can still help avoid surgery in many cases.

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