Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder impingement occurs when rotator cuff tendons are compressed under the acromion during arm elevation. Combined cervical-thoracic chiropractic care and regenerative therapy resolves most cases without surgery.

What Is Shoulder Impingement?

Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when the rotator cuff tendons (particularly the supraspinatus) and the subacromial bursa are compressed between the humeral head and the acromion process during shoulder movements. This causes pain with overhead reaching, across-body movements, and lying on the shoulder. Thoracic hyperkyphosis and forward head posture reduce the subacromial space mechanically — addressing spinal posture is essential for long-term resolution. Cervical nerve irritation at C5-C6 also compounds shoulder pain.

Common Symptoms

Pain with overhead reaching or lifting
Shoulder pain when lying on the affected side at night
Painful arc — pain occurring between 60-120 degrees of arm elevation
Weakness with external shoulder rotation
Gradual onset of pain worsening with repetitive overhead activities
Stiffness and restricted range of motion

Common Causes & Contributing Factors

Postural kyphosis and forward shoulder posture narrowing the subacromial space
Rotator cuff muscle weakness allowing superior humeral head migration
Cervical and upper thoracic subluxation contributing to shoulder dysfunction
Repetitive overhead activities — painting, throwing, swimming
Acromial anatomy — hooked or curved acromion
Age-related rotator cuff degeneration

The Pura Vida Protocol: Chiropractic Care for Shoulder Impingement

Dr. Foss addresses shoulder impingement from both the local and cervicothoracic perspectives. Thoracic spine corrections open the chest and reduce kyphosis — directly increasing the subacromial space. Cervical corrections at C5-C6 address the nerve supply to the shoulder musculature. Shoulder joint mobilization restores glenohumeral mechanics and reduces adhesive capsulitis. SoftWave therapy penetrates the subacromial bursa and rotator cuff insertion, reducing chronic inflammation and stimulating tendon repair. Most patients experience significant improvement within 4-8 weeks of combined care.

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.

Advanced Therapies We Combine With Chiropractic

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:

SoftWave Therapy

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.

Class IV Laser Therapy

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.

Why Choose Pura Vida Chiropractic in San Antonio?

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 with most insurance plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, Aetna, Ambetter, Oscar Health, Community First, and Molina Healthcare. New patient appointments are available promptly.

Ready to Get Relief from Shoulder Impingement?

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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