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Shoulder and arm pain can originate from the shoulder joint itself, the cervical spine, or both. Pura Vida Chiropractic evaluates the entire upper extremity chain to find and fix the real source of your pain.
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body, making it inherently vulnerable to instability and injury. Pain in the shoulder and arm may arise from rotator cuff tendinopathy or tears, shoulder impingement, AC joint dysfunction, bicep tendinitis, or frozen shoulder. Equally common — and frequently missed — is referred pain from the cervical spine. Nerve roots exiting C4–C8 supply sensation and motor control to the shoulder, arm, and hand, so a cervical disc herniation or facet joint irritation at any of these levels can cause pain, weakness, or numbness far from the spine. A comprehensive evaluation distinguishing local shoulder pathology from cervical referral is essential.
Dr. Foss evaluates the cervical spine, thoracic spine, shoulder girdle, and shoulder joint as an integrated unit. SOT cervical adjustments decompress nerve roots that may be referring pain into the arm. Shoulder and AC joint adjustments restore proper glenohumeral and scapulothoracic mechanics. Myofascial release targeting the rotator cuff, pectorals, and upper trapezius addresses the muscular contributors to shoulder dysfunction. This combined approach resolves pain faster and more thoroughly than treating only the shoulder in isolation.
At Pura Vida Chiropractic, Dr. Foss uses Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT) — a gentle, category-based system that addresses the spine, pelvis, and craniosacral rhythm as one integrated unit. SOT restores proper biomechanics, reduces nerve interference, and creates the neurological environment your body needs to heal itself.
For many patients, combining spinal correction with regenerative therapies produces faster and more lasting results. Depending on your condition, Dr. Foss may incorporate one or more of the following:
High-energy acoustic waves penetrate deep into tissue to break up calcifications, stimulate collagen production, and accelerate the body's natural repair process — all without surgery or downtime.
Patented unfocused shock waves spread over a broad treatment area to reduce inflammation, increase blood flow, and activate stem cells — promoting cellular regeneration and long-term pain relief.
Photobiomodulation with a 10–15W Class IV laser delivers therapeutic light energy deep into tissue, reducing inflammation, blocking pain signals, and speeding healing at the cellular level.
Pura Vida Chiropractic is a family-friendly, bilingual (English/Spanish) clinic serving San Antonio, TX. Dr. Dan Foss is trained in Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT), a comprehensive chiropractic system that addresses the whole body — not just the area of pain. We combine hands-on spinal correction with the latest regenerative technology to help patients resolve the root cause of their condition rather than masking symptoms.
We are insurance friendly. Bring your insurance card and ID to the office to verify how your insurance can contribute to your care. New patient appointments are available promptly.
Comparing options? See how to choose a chiropractor near me in San Antonio or read our guide on how to choose the best chiropractor in San Antonio.
Shoulder and arm pain has many drivers: cervical radiculopathy (C5–T1 nerve roots), rotator cuff tendinopathy or tear, frozen shoulder, shoulder impingement, thoracic outlet syndrome, brachial plexus irritation, and referred pain from cardiac, gallbladder, or other visceral sources. Identifying the exact pattern determines treatment.
Dr. Foss systematically identifies the source — cervical, thoracic, scapular, shoulder joint, or peripheral nerve entrapment. SOT addresses the relevant structural pattern, soft-tissue work releases peripheral entrapments, and SoftWave or Class IV laser is added when local tendinopathy or inflammation requires direct treatment. Most patients see meaningful relief within 6–10 visits.
Acute shoulder and arm pain often resolves in 6–12 visits. Chronic patterns (rotator cuff tendinopathy, frozen shoulder, chronic radiculopathy) typically need 12–20 visits with SoftWave added in appropriate cases. Cases with significant motor weakness warrant orthopedic or neurological evaluation alongside conservative care.
Yes, with appropriate technique. SOT uses gentle, non-rotational approaches. Dr. Foss screens for cardiac and other visceral referral patterns when shoulder and arm pain doesn't fit a typical musculoskeletal presentation, and coordinates with orthopedics when surgical consultation is appropriate.
Schedule your new patient appointment with Dr. Foss at Pura Vida Chiropractic in San Antonio, TX. We'll identify the root cause and build a personalized care plan.
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