Are you able to reach behind you and have your fingers meet? Fingers touching like this is fabulous, but if you fingers are wide apart, this indicates restriction in your shoulders.

Why Your Shoulder Movement Might Be Restricted—and How It Can Lead to Pain

Have you ever noticed your shoulder feeling tight, stiff, or even painful when reaching overhead? Maybe putting on a jacket or reaching for something on a high shelf isn’t as easy as it used to be. If so, you’re not alone—restricted shoulder movement is a common issue that can lead to problems like tendonitis and impingement.

In my latest video, I break down why this happens and what you can do about it. But first, let’s take a quick look at what’s going on inside your shoulder.

What Causes Shoulder Restriction?

Your shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in your body, but with great mobility comes a greater chance of things going wrong! It relies on a delicate balance between muscles, tendons, and joints to move freely. When something disrupts this balance—like poor posture, muscle tightness, or not moving enough—your shoulder can become stiff and restricted.

Over time, your body tries to compensate. Other muscles work harder to make up for the lack of movement, and that’s when problems start. If left unaddressed, this can lead to inflammation, irritation of the tendons (tendonitis), and impingement—where parts of your shoulder get pinched, causing pain and even more stiffness.

Signs Your Shoulder Movement is Restricted

Here are some common signs that your shoulder may not be moving as freely as it should:

Pain when reaching overhead or behind your back or maybe just an inability to do so easily
A clicking or catching feeling in your shoulder
Weakness when lifting objects
Ongoing stiffness that doesn’t improve with stretching

If any of these sound familiar, your shoulder might need some attention. The good news? There are simple ways to improve it!

What Can You Do About It?

In my video, I explain why these restrictions can happen and show you some simple exercises to help your shoulder move better. By addressing the root cause, you can reduce pain, prevent tendonitis, and get back to moving freely.

👉 Watch the video now to learn how to ease shoulder stiffness and move pain-free!

Shoulder Pain and Restricted Movement: Causes and Fixes

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Sabrina is a movement specialist based in Worcester Park, helping people overcome pain, move better, and enjoy active, fulfilling lives. With expertise in sports and remedial massage, personal training, and the Emmett Technique, she works with clients to relieve pain, improve mobility, and build strength. Treatments and training sessions take place in her private home treatment and training room. If you would like to discuss your needs, book a Discovery Call.