Neck pain that travels into the shoulder isn’t uncommon. In fact, both areas are often linked due to shared nerves and spinal segments. When vertebrae shift or rotate, they can put pressure on the nerves that control your shoulder and arm movement.

At Gonstead Family Chiropractic in Kearny Mesa, we treat patients of all ages suffering from shoulder and neck pain. Our specific and thorough technique aims to fix the root of the problem — not just cover symptoms.


Common Causes of Shoulder & Neck Pain

Pain in the shoulder or neck may start from:

  • Spinal misalignments affecting nerve roots
  • Muscle strain from poor posture or computer use
  • Overuse injuries or sports trauma
  • Radiating nerve irritation from cervical spine

We often find that patients with shoulder pain also have cervical misalignments, which can compress or inflame the nerve roots extending down the arm.


How the Gonstead Technique Fixes the Root Problem

The Gonstead system is built on specificity. Our doctors don’t adjust everything — only what needs it.

We use a 5-point analysis that includes posture evaluation, nerve scans, palpation, movement checks, and full spine X-rays. For shoulder-related symptoms, we pay close attention to the cervical and upper thoracic spine where nerves exit toward the arms.

Our adjustments are done by hand, using precision to correct only the vertebra causing the issue. This allows better results with fewer visits.

Many patients with shoulder impingement symptoms find improvement through cervical correction.


What to Expect from a Gonstead Shoulder/Neck Adjustment

Gonstead adjustments for this region are:

  • Performed gently while lying down or seated
  • Targeted to the specific nerve segment involved
  • Followed by a nerve check to confirm correction

You may feel lighter and more mobile right after the session. There’s no aggressive twisting or unnecessary force.


Who Benefits from Gonstead Care

This care is ideal for:

  • People with pain or tightness in neck and shoulder
  • Numbness or tingling into the arms or fingers
  • Desk workers or drivers with forward head posture
  • Athletes recovering from shoulder injuries

If your symptoms include severe weakness or sudden loss of control, seek immediate medical help.


Real San Diego Patient Experience

One of our patients from Clairemont came in with chronic neck tightness and pain down the shoulder blade. After several Gonstead sessions, they reported improved range of motion and reduced daily pain.

Another patient from Serra Mesa, who had been in a minor car crash years ago, finally found relief after cervical adjustments corrected long-ignored spinal pressure.


Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gonstead effective for shoulder pain?
Yes, especially if the pain originates from nerve interference or spinal misalignment.

Will it hurt?
No. Our adjustments are gentle and specific.

How long will it take to feel relief?
Some feel better instantly. Others need a series of treatments depending on severity and duration.

Does insurance cover care?
Many plans do. We help you verify coverage.


Start Your Neck & Shoulder Recovery Today

📞 858‑997‑8203
🗓️ Schedule Online: https://drzach.janeapp.com/
🌐 Visit Our Website: https://gonsteadchiropractic-sd.com/

We serve Kearny Mesa, Clairemont, Serra Mesa, Mira Mesa, Mission Valley, and nearby areas. Dr Zach’s Got Your Back®

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