Learn best practices for chiropractic rehabilitation for shoulder pain to improve your recovery and overall health.
Table of Contents
In this educational post, I, Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP, ATN, CCST, present a comprehensive, first-person walkthrough of an adolescent athlete with five months of progressive left shoulder pain, weakness, and nocturnal symptoms—ultimately consistent with suprascapular neuropathy. I reframe a clinical transcript into a narrative that takes you through my evaluation, the anatomical landmarks, reasoning for in-office intervention, and an integrative treatment plan that blends chiropractic care, medical oversight, functional medicine, targeted rehabilitation, and personal injury protocols. I also highlight how our multidisciplinary team at Injury Medical Clinic PA (Mission Plaza Injury Medical Clinic) in El Paso, Texas—collaborating under the medical direction of Dr. Maria Guadalupe Cardenas, MD (Board Certified in Internal Medicine; NPI #1164426749; Texas MD License #J2933)—utilizes modern, evidence-based diagnostics and interventions that reflect current literature from leading researchers in sports medicine, neurology, orthopedics, and pain science.
This post explains the anatomy and physiology of the suprascapular nerve and rotator cuff, the pathomechanics of compression at the suprascapular notch, and how we integrate ultrasound-guided assessment, electrodiagnostics, rehabilitative exercise science, chiropractic adjustments and mobilizations, soft tissue optimization, motor control retraining, progressive loading, and recovery strategies to restore function. I describe the rationale for specific techniques, including scapular kinematics, load management for young lifters, and when corticosteroid injections may be medically indicated. Throughout, I highlight the value of interprofessional collaboration—where the MD’s medical direction ensures safety, diagnostic rigor, and pharmacologic stewardship. At the same time, chiropractic and functional medicine approaches drive biomechanical correction and systems-level recovery.
The journey culminates with a data-driven, compassionate plan for sustained performance and long-term musculoskeletal health, grounded in patient education and shared decision-making.
Keywords: suprascapular neuropathy, suprascapular notch, supraspinatus, infraspinatus, rotator cuff, shoulder abduction, external rotation weakness, integrative chiropractic care, internal medicine oversight, corticosteroid injection, functional rehabilitation, sports medicine
I met an 18-year-old gentleman who had been lifting weights for seven to eight years. Over the last five months, he developed progressive, vague pain in his left shoulder, with notable weakness that slowly worsened. His pain increased at night, especially when lying on the left side. On examination, I observed clear atrophy of the left infraspinatus and supraspinatus, with asymmetry compared with the right side. He described difficulties in the gym with shoulder abduction and external rotation—classic complaints that raised my suspicion for suprascapular neuropathy caused by compression where the suprascapular nerve traverses the suprascapular notch.
At Injury Medical Clinic PA (Mission Plaza Injury Medical Clinic), we practice in a multidisciplinary framework that blends chiropractic musculoskeletal expertise with internal medicine oversight. I serve as an integrative clinician—chiropractor and advanced practice registered nurse (FNP-BC)—and my medical director and collaborative physician is Dr. Maria Guadalupe Cardenas, MD, Board Certified in Internal Medicine (NPI #1164426749; Texas MD License #J2933). Dr. Cardenas provides medical direction and ensures that any invasive procedures, pharmacologic considerations, and systemic risk factors are managed appropriately within the standards of care.
Together, we bring an evidence-based, team-centered model to shoulder pain and nerve entrapment syndromes. Our approach includes:
In this post, I will walk you through my clinical reasoning, demonstrate how we identify landmarks and perform a suprascapular nerve region intervention, and outline a complete care plan. I will also interweave findings from the latest research and clinical guidelines to ensure the narrative reflects modern best practices.
When an 18-year-old with years of weightlifting develops shoulder pain and weakness in abduction and external rotation—combined with supraspinatus and infraspinatus atrophy—the suspicion of suprascapular neuropathy is strong. The suprascapular nerve arises from the upper trunk of the brachial plexus (C5-C6, occasionally C4 contributions) and provides motor innervation to:
The nerve traverses the suprascapular notch beneath the superior transverse scapular ligament and then winds around the spine of the scapula to the spinoglenoid notch. The most common entrapment sites are:
Persistent mechanical stress—such as heavy lifting, repetitive overhead movements, and scapular dyskinesis—can lead to dynamic compression of the nerve. Over time, compression may cause demyelination and axonal loss, manifesting as weakness and muscle atrophy. In young athletes and lifters, subtle scapulothoracic dyskinesis, inadequate posterior shoulder flexibility, and imbalances between prime movers and stabilizers can predispose to nerve irritation and traction injuries.
Important risk elements include:
The clinical presentation aligns with research that shows suprascapular neuropathy in overhead athletes and lifters, especially with dominant-side shoulder demands. The nuance, however, is that the nerve may be compromised at different points along its course, and the pattern of motor deficits and atrophy can help localize the compression site. Weakness in both abduction initiation (supraspinatus) and external rotation (infraspinatus), with visible atrophy in each, suggests involvement at or proximal to the suprascapular notch, before the nerve branches into separate divisions for the supraspinatus and infraspinatus.
To fully grasp why this condition progresses, it helps to understand the physiology of nerves and muscles under compressive stress:
By appreciating these dynamics, our interventions aim to restore neural gliding, reduce compressive forces, correct scapular mechanics, and support tissue recovery through a targeted, progressive plan.
From the first moment, I focused on three pillars: observation, palpation, and functional testing.
Given this constellation, suprascapular neuropathy at the notch was the leading consideration. Differential diagnoses still needed discussion:
We consider imaging (MRI, ultrasound) and nerve conduction studies when needed. In a young athlete with progressive weakness and visible atrophy, I often coordinate with Dr. Cardenas to determine timing for electrodiagnostics if improvement stalls or if we anticipate the need for surgical referral in the rare case of refractory compression by a structural lesion.
At our clinic, Dr. Cardenas serves as Medical Director and Collaborative Physician. Her role ensures our protocols are medically sound and coordinated across disciplines. My role includes chiropractic assessment and intervention, functional rehabilitation planning, and advanced practice nursing oversight within collaborative practice, enabling me to integrate functional medicine considerations and coordinate care across specialists.
Our integrated process includes:
This collaborative framework underpins safe, effective care.
During this visit, given the intensity and progression of symptoms, we planned a targeted therapeutic injection in the supraspinatus fossa near the suprascapular notch, as part of a broader conservative care protocol. In many cases, we use ultrasound guidance to improve precision and safety, and Dr. Cardenas provides oversight and medical direction for these procedures. Here is how I approached this intervention:
In our setting, precise technique and adherence to safety protocols are essential. With medical oversight, we ensure that patients are appropriately screened for contraindications and that post-procedural care is planned and communicated clearly.
In cases of suprascapular neuropathy with inflammatory components around the notch or supraspinatus fossa, a carefully placed injection can reduce local inflammatory mediators, alleviate pain, and allow for more effective participation in rehabilitation. The goals include:
However, injections are not standalone solutions. They are part of a larger plan that corrects mechanics, addresses load errors, and restores neural health. Repeated steroid injections are minimized due to risks such as tendon weakening or systemic effects. Our practice emphasizes that injections bridge the gap to improved movement and restored strength.
Chiropractic care shines in restoring optimal joint mechanics, soft tissue function, and neuromuscular control. For this patient, our focus areas included:
Each manual technique has a clear physiological rationale: improve joint motion, reduce local tone and myofascial restriction, normalize afferent input, and promote coordinated motor output. The combination is synergistic with rehabilitation exercises.
A comprehensive rehabilitation strategy is central to reversing atrophy and restoring performance. Our phased approach includes:
We measure success not only by pain reduction but by improvements in torque, fatigue resistance, scapular kinematics, and return-to-sport readiness.
For young lifters, a “more is better” culture can undermine shoulder health. Education is crucial:
Working with coaches and families, we set realistic timelines to avoid rushed returns that risk re-injury.
Beyond biomechanics, system-level recovery matters:
By integrating these elements, we improve resilience and tissue regeneration.
Dr. Maria Guadalupe Cardenas, MD, brings over 40 years of internal medicine experience. She ensures:
Our collaboration places the patient’s safety and long-term outcomes at the center. Medical rigor and careful monitoring enhance the chiropractic and functional interventions.
Following the injection, I guided the patient through:
This immediate movement supports improved tissue permeability and reduces fear of movement. The key is graded exposure to motion aligned with symptom response.
We track:
If weakness persists beyond expected timelines or if new neurological findings arise, we escalate to electrodiagnostics and advanced imaging. The goal is to avoid delay in addressing structural causes that require different interventions.
From my published observations and clinical commentaries (see WellnessDoctorRX and my professional updates), I’ve noted:
These insights guide our emphasis on holistic correction rather than symptom-only relief.
We are judicious with corticosteroids:
Patient education includes discussion of benefits, risks, and the central role of movement re-education.
With integrated care, our 18-year-old patient embarked on a structured path:
His nocturnal pain decreased, external rotation strength improved, and visible atrophy attenuated as muscle activation and hypertrophy returned. Most importantly, he learned to listen to early signals and adjust training proactively.
We emphasize:
Our goal is not just symptom relief—it is building self-efficacy and long-term shoulder resilience.
A timely evaluation prevents chronic denervation and supports better outcomes.
Modern literature supports an integrated approach:
We align with this evidence by combining precise manual care, structured rehabilitation, medical oversight, and functional medicine insights.
In this case, an 18-year-old lifter presented with five months of progressive left shoulder pain and weakness, with visible atrophy of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus, suggestive of suprascapular neuropathy at the notch. Through careful assessment, a targeted injection under medical oversight, integrative chiropractic care, and a robust rehabilitation plan, we addressed both the symptoms and the root causes. Our multidisciplinary model at Injury Medical Clinic PA, with Dr. Maria Guadalupe Cardenas as Medical Director and Collaborative Physician, ensures a high standard of safety and evidence-based practice for athletes and active individuals alike.
If you or your athlete has similar symptoms, an integrated evaluation can clarify the cause and set a path to safe, sustainable recovery.
Note: This educational post synthesizes current best practices and research. Qualified clinicians should tailor care plans to each patient.
SEO tags: suprascapular neuropathy, suprascapular nerve, suprascapular notch, supraspinatus atrophy, infraspinatus atrophy, shoulder abduction weakness, external rotation weakness, young athlete shoulder pain, integrative chiropractic, internal medicine collaboration, corticosteroid injection shoulder, scapular dyskinesis, rotator cuff rehabilitation, functional medicine shoulder, El Paso chiropractor, Injury Medical Clinic PA, Mission Plaza Injury Medical Clinic, Dr. Maria Guadalupe Cardenas MD, Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, evidence-based shoulder care
General Disclaimer, Licenses and Board Certifications *
Professional Scope of Practice *
The information herein on "Chiropractic Rehabilitation Success Stories from Shoulder Pain" is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional.
Blog Information & Scope Discussions
Welcome to El Paso's Premier Wellness and Injury Care Clinic & Wellness Blog, where Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, FNP-C, a Multi-State board-certified Family Practice Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and Chiropractor (DC), presents insights on how our multidisciplinary team is dedicated to holistic healing and personalized care. Our practice aligns with evidence-based treatment protocols inspired by integrative medicine principles, similar to those on this site and on our family practice-based chiromed.com site, focusing on naturally restoring health for patients of all ages.
Our areas of multidisciplinary practice include Wellness & Nutrition, Chronic Pain, Personal Injury, Auto Accident Care, Work Injuries, Back Injury, Low Back Pain, Neck Pain, Migraine Headaches, Sports Injuries, Severe Sciatica, Scoliosis, Complex Herniated Discs, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Pain, Complex Injuries, Stress Management, Functional Medicine Treatments, and in-scope care protocols.
Our information scope is multidisciplinary, focusing on musculoskeletal and physical medicine; wellness; contributing etiological viscerosomatic disturbances within clinical presentations; associated somato-visceral reflex clinical dynamics; subluxation complexes; sensitive health issues; and functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions.
We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from various disciplines. Each specialist follows their professional scope of practice and licensure jurisdiction. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for musculoskeletal injuries or disorders.
Our videos, posts, topics, and insights address clinical matters and issues that directly or indirectly relate to our clinical scope of practice.
Our office has made a reasonable effort to provide supportive citations and has identified relevant research studies that support our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies upon request to regulatory boards and the public.
For further discussion on how this information relates to specific care plans or treatment protocols, please ask Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, or contact us at 915-850-0900.
We are here to help you and your family.
Blessings
Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, APRN, FNP-BC*, CCST, IFMCP, CFMP, ATN
Email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com
Multidisciplinary Licensing & Board Certifications:
Licensed as a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) in Texas & New Mexico*
Chiropractic Licenses:
Texas DC License #: TX5807, Verified: TX5807
New Mexico DC License #: NM-DC2182, Verified: NM-DC2182
Nurse Practitioner Licenses:
Texas APRN License #: 1191402, Verified: 1191402 *
New Mexico CNP License #: 90560, Verified 90560
Florida APRN License #: 11043890, Verified: APRN11043890 *
Colorado License #: C-APN.0105610-C-NP, Verified: C-APN.0105610-C-NP
New York License #: N25929, Verified N25929
Georgia APRN License #: GAA-NP005701
Multi-State Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN*) Texas & Multi-States
Multi-state Compact APRN License by Endorsement (43 States)
Compact Status: Multi-State License: Authorized to Practice in 43 States*
Nursing Licensure Compact: Updated Here
DEA Registration: (Drug Enforcement Agency Registered)
All medical (MDs) and family practice providers (FNP-APRN) are registered and licensed to offer various levels of medication.
Verify Providers Here
License Verification Link: Nursys License Verifier
* Prescriptive Authority Authorized (DEA Registered Providers). Call if Required
Board Certification:
ANCC FNP-BC: Board Certified Nurse Practitioner*
Education:
Graduate with Honors: ICHS: MSN-FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner Program)
Degree Granted. Master's in Family Practice, MSN Diploma (Cum Laude)
Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC*, CFMP, IFMCP, ATN, CCST
(Board Certified: Family Practice Nurse Practitioner—Multistate)*
(Licensed Nurse Practitioner & Chiropractor - Multistate)*
Clinical Director
DC & FNP License (Review Above)
Digital Business Card
NPI: 1205907805
Dr. Maria Cardenas, MD
(Board Certified: Internal Medicine)
(Licensed Medical Doctor)
Medical Director, Clinical Director & Collaborative Physician
NPI # 1164426748
MD License #: J2933
Licenses and Board Certifications:
MD: Medical Doctor
DC: Doctor of Chiropractic
APRNP: Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
FNP-BC: Family Practice Specialization (Multi-State Board Certified)
FNP-BC: Family Practice Across Life Span (Neonatal to Geriatrics)
RN: Registered Nurse (Multi-State Compact License)
CFMP: Certified Functional Medicine Provider
MSN-FNP: Master of Science in Family Practice Medicine
MSACP: Master of Science in Advanced Clinical Practice
IFMCP: Institute of Functional Medicine
CCST: Certified Chiropractic Spinal Trauma
ATN: Advanced Translational Neutrogenomics
Family with Primary Care Focus (Family Nurse Practitioner or FNP)
Memberships & Associations:
TCA: Texas Chiropractic Association: Member ID: 104311
TNA: Texas Nurse Association: Member ID: 06458222
TNP: Texas Nurse Practitioner Association ID: 2025091511
AANP: American Association of Nurse Practitioners: Member ID: 2198960
ANA: American Nurses Association: Member ID: 06458222 (District TX01)
| Primary Taxonomy | Selected Taxonomy | State | License Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| No | 111N00000X - Chiropractor | NM | DC2182 |
| Yes | 111N00000X - Chiropractor | TX | DC5807 |
| Yes | 363LF0000X - Nurse Practitioner - Family | TX | 1191402 |
| Yes | 363LF0000X - Nurse Practitioner - Family | FL | 11043890 |
| Yes | 363LF0000X - Nurse Practitioner - Family | CO | C-APN.0105610-C-NP |
| Yes | 363LF0000X - Nurse Practitioner - Family | NY | N25929 |
| Yes | 363LF0000X - Nurse Practitioner - Family | NM | 90560 |
| Yes | 363LF0000X - Nurse Practitioner - Family | GA | GAA-NP005701 |
Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC*, CFMP, IFMCP, ATN, CCST
(Board Certified: Family Practice Nurse Practitioner—Multistate)*
(Primary Care Across Lifespan—Neonatal / Pediatric / Adult / Geriatrics)
(Licensed Nurse Practitioner & Chiropractor - Multistate)*
Clinical Director
Digital Business Card
NPI: 1205907805
Dr. Maria Cardenas, MD
(Board Certified: Internal Medicine)*
(Licensed Medical Doctor)*
Medical Director, Clinical Director & Collaborative Physician
NPI # 1164426748
MD License #: J2933
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