Brief Description and Symptoms
Shoulder pain is a common musculoskeletal complaint that can significantly impact dailyactivities, from simple tasks like reaching for objects to moredemanding movements required inwork and recreational activities. The shoulder is one of the most complex and mobile joints inthe body, making it particularly vulnerable to a variety of injuries and conditions.
At Ne-Plus Ultra Chiropractic in Pasadena,California, Dr. Lamar Baddley providescomprehensive, evidence-based care for shoulder pain, addressing not just the symptoms butthe underlying causes to achieve lasting relief and improved function.

Common Types of
Shoulder Pain
Rotator Cuff Issues
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Strains, tears, or tendinitis affecting the group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint
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Often caused by repetitive overhead motions, sudden trauma, or age - related degeneration
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May present as dull aching pain, weakness, and limited range of motion
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
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Characterized by stiffness, pain, and severely restricted movement
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Develops gradually in three stages: freezing (painful), frozen (stiff), and thawing (improving)
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More common in adults 40 - 60 years old a nd those with certain medical conditions like diabetes
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
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Occurs when the rotator cuff tendons become compressed or irritated
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Often related to poor posture, muscle imbalances, or repetitive overhead activities
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Causes pain wi th overhead movements and may lead to weakness and limited function
Shoulder Instability
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Excessive movement in the shoulder joint that can lead to partial or complete dislocations
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May result from trauma, overuse, or congenital laxity
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Creates a feeling of the shoulder "giving way" or slipping out of place
Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Dysfunction
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Affects the joint where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade
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Often caused by falls, direct impacts, or degenerative changes
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Creates localized pain at th e top of the shoulder that worsens with movement

Common Symptoms
- Pain that may be sharp, dull, aching, or burning
- Restricted range of motion
- Weakness in the shoulder and arm
- Difficulty performing overhead activities
- Pain that worsens at night or when lyi ng on the affected side
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sensations with movement
- Stiffness and difficulty reaching behind the back
- Referred pain into the neck, upper back, or down the arm
- Muscle spasms around the shoulder and upper back
- Swelling or visible deformity (in some cases)
How Chiropractic Care
Addresses Addresses Shoulder Pain
Comprehensive Assessment
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Detailed health history and pain pattern analysis
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Comprehensive physical examination of the shoulder complex
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Range of motion and strength testing
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Orthopedic tests specific to shoulder conditions
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Assessment of neck and upper back function
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Evaluation of posture and movement patterns
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Neurological screening
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nalysis of contributing factors (work habits, sports activities, etc.)
This multifaceted assessment allows Dr. Baddley to identify the specific causes of your shoulder pain, which may include:
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Joint misalignments in the shoulder complex
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Cervical or thoracic spine dysfunction affecting shoulder mechanics
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Muscle imbalances or weakness
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Soft tissue injuries or inflammation
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Postural abnormalities
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Movement pattern dysfunctions
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Nerve impingement or irritation
Personalized Treatment Approaches
Shoulder Joint Adjustments
Gentle, specific manipulations to restore proper alignment and movement to the shoulder joint complex, including:
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Glenohumeral joint adj ustments
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Acromioclavicular (AC) joint adjustments
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Scapulothoracic mobilization
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Sternoclavicular joint techniques
Therapeutic Exercises
Customized exercise programs designed to:
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Strengthen rotator cuff and stabilizing muscles
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Improve shoulder mobility and flexibility
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Correct muscle imbalances
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Enhance scapular stability and control
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Restore proper movement patterns
Spinal Adjustments
Addressing related spinal issues that may contribute to shoulder dysfunction:
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Cervical spine adjustments to improve nerve function to the shoulder
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Upper thoracic adjustments to enhance shoulder biomechanics
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Rib cage mobilization to improve shoulder girdle function
Posture Correction
Strategies to address postural issues that contribute to shoulder pain:
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Ergonomic recommendations for work and daily activities
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Postural awareness training
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Corrective exercises for forward head posture and rounded shoulders
Soft Tissue Therapy
Targeted techniques to address muscle tension, adhesions, and trigger points:
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Myof ascial release for rotator cuff and shoulder girdle muscles
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Trigger point therapy for pain reduction
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Cross - friction massage for tendon healing
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Instrument - assisted soft tissue mobilization
Lifestyle Modifications
Guidance on daily habits that impact shoulder health:
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Activity modification to reduce strain
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Proper techniques for work - related movements
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Sleep positioning recommendations
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Strategies to prevent re - injury
Complementary Therapies
Additional modalities that enhance the effectiveness of chiropractic care:
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Kinesio taping for support and pain reduction
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Electrical stimulation for pain management
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Ultrasound therapy to reduce inflammation
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Cold laser therapy to accelerate healing
Evidence-Based Approach

Expected Outcomes and
Benefits of Treatment
Short-Term Benefits
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Pain Reduction:
Significant decrease in shoulder pain intensity
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Improved Mobility
ncreased range of motion in the shoulder joint
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Decreased Muscle Tension*
Reduction in muscle guarding and sp asms
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Better Sleep
ess pain interference with sleep quality
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Improved Daily Function
Greater ease with routine activities
Long - Term Benefits
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Corrected Underlying Issues
Addressing the root causes of shoulder dysfunction
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Enhanced Stability
Stronger supporting musculature
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Preventive Strategies
ools and knowledge to prevent future episodes
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Sustainable Self - Management
Skills to maintain shoulder health indepe ndently
Functional Improvements
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Work Performance
Improved comfort and capability with occupational tasks
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Athletic Performance
Return to sports and recreational activities
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Daily Activities
Easier performance of routine tasks like reaching, lifting, and carrying
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Quality of Life
Overall enhancement in life satisfaction and well - being
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Independence
Reduced need for ongoing treatment or assistance
Patient Success Stories

Robert M., Pasadena

Lisa T., Altadena

David K., San Marino

Evidence-Based Approach
We understand that dealing with insurance claims and legal documentation can be stressfulafter an accident. Our office staff is experienced in handling personal injury cases and can assistwith
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Detailed documentation of injuries and treatment for insurance claims
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Communication with insurance adjusters and attorneys when needed
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Clear explanation of coverage and benefits
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Assistance with paperwork and filing requirements
Clinic Locations
House calls by appointment
- South Pasadena, CA
- San Marino CA
- Altadena CA
- Alhambra CA
- San Gabriel CA
- La Canada Flintridge, CA
- Sierra Madre CA
- Temple City, CA
- Monterey Park, CA
- Rosemead, CA
- Arcadia CA
- Glendale, CA
- Monrovia CA
- El Monte CA
- South El Monte CA