You know that sore spot between your neck and shoulder?
The one you always want someone to rub?
That's where your upper traps are.
These muscles work hard all day, and they can get pretty sore!
But here's something interesting.
Sometimes, the muscles around your shoulder are part of the problem, too.
Meet your rotator cuff
Your rotator cuff is a group of four small muscles around your shoulder.
You may not know their names, but you use them all day!
They help you lift your arm, turn it, and keep your shoulder steady.
Every time you reach for a cup, brush your hair, or grab something off a shelf, these muscles are helping you.
Pretty important for such little muscles!
Why does the top of my shoulder hurt?
Your neck, shoulders, and upper back all work together.
When one area is sore or not moving well, you may start using other muscles differently.
Sometimes, that can leave the muscles around your neck and shoulders feeling tired.
Pain can also travel from one area to another.
For example, a problem in your neck may cause pain that you feel in your shoulder.
And a problem with your rotator cuff may cause pain around your shoulder or upper arm.
That doesn't mean every sore trap is caused by the rotator cuff. It means there may be more to your pain than one tight spot!
What can you do to help?
First, pay attention to what makes your shoulder hurt.
Does it bother you when you lift your arm?
Does it hurt after working at a desk?
Does sleeping on that side make it worse?
These little clues can help you learn more about your body.
You can also try taking breaks from the same tasks, moving your shoulders gently, and avoiding activities that clearly make the pain worse.
If you have new weakness, trouble lifting your arm, or pain after an injury, see a healthcare professional.
How can massage help?
A massage therapist can work with the muscles around your neck, shoulders, and upper back.
This may include the small muscles around your shoulder blade and rotator cuff.
Massage can help ease muscle soreness and make tight areas feel more comfortable.
But massage isn't a fix for every shoulder problem. A torn tendon or another injury may need medical care.
At The Deep Tissue Spa, we don't just rub the spot that hurts.
We take time to learn what you're feeling and choose the right approach for you.
Give those shoulders some attention
If your neck and shoulders feel tired after a long day, focused massage may help.
Learn more about our shoulder massage services in Melbourne, Florida.
