The neck/shoulder connection by Dean Smith, BScPT

As a physical therapist, I frequently work with clients who experience pain and disability in the neck and shoulder region. What are the causes of these issues?

- Work injuries
- Car accidents
- Other trauma (falls, sport-related)
- Disease, especially arthritis
- Chronic poor postural habits at work, home and during sleep

When people suffer pain in this region of the body, I frequently observe postural issues and muscle imbalances. I can only speculate as to whether these were there prior to the onset of pain or if the dysfunctions developed afterward.