Persistent pain in your neck or elbow might not be coming from where you think. For many individuals, shoulder injuries are the hidden source of discomfort radiating into neighboring joints. Understanding the link between these regions is key to finding relief that lasts.
At Union County Orthopaedic Group, a division of OrthoNJ, patients have relied on our trusted orthopedic expertise since 1966. As part of the largest orthopedic private practice in New Jersey, our board-certified specialists in orthopedics, pain management, and rehabilitation collaborate to deliver comprehensive, personalized care for complex joint issues affecting the shoulder, neck, and elbow.
Why Shoulder Injuries Cause Neck and Elbow Pain
The shoulder is an incredibly mobile joint, but that mobility comes at a cost. When shoulder structures are damaged, they can place stress on nearby nerves and muscles, causing referred pain in adjacent areas like the neck or elbow. Some shoulder injuries include:
- Nerve pathways: The brachial plexus runs from the neck through the shoulder to the arm. Shoulder injuries can compress these nerves and cause radiating pain.
- Muscle overuse: Muscles compensating for a weak or injured shoulder can strain the neck or forearm.
- Joint alignment issues: A shoulder joint out of balance can shift posture and biomechanics, affecting other joints over time.
By treating the shoulder as the origin, many patients experience improvement in symptoms throughout the upper body.
Signs That Shoulder Pain Is Affecting Other Areas
It’s not always easy to connect shoulder pain with secondary symptoms. Watch for these telltale signs that your shoulder injury may be contributing to discomfort elsewhere:
- Tingling or numbness in the arm or fingers.
- Stiffness or soreness in the side of the neck.
- Weakness when gripping or lifting.
- Difficulty sleeping on the affected side.
If you’re noticing pain in multiple areas of the upper body, it’s time to consult one of our shoulder specialists.
How to Treat Pain Radiating from the Shoulder
Fortunately, many cases of shoulder-related pain can be managed without surgery. Your orthopedic care plan may include:
- Imaging tests to pinpoint nerve compression or tissue damage.
- Physical therapy focused on the shoulder and surrounding muscles.
- Injections are used to reduce inflammation and relieve nerve irritation.
- Minimally invasive surgery for rotator cuff tears or labral damage when needed.
Comprehensive evaluation and coordinated care help ensure that all sources of pain are addressed effectively.
Move Comfortably Again with Union County Orthopaedic Group
Don’t ignore nagging neck or elbow pain that could stem from a shoulder injury. Contact Union County Orthopaedic Group at 908-486-1111 to schedule your consultation and take control of your upper body health.