{"id":3561,"date":"2024-07-02T09:38:07","date_gmt":"2024-07-02T09:38:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/integrativa.pt\/?p=3561"},"modified":"2026-01-31T20:23:38","modified_gmt":"2026-01-31T20:23:38","slug":"shoulder-pain-and-posture-how-biomechanics-influences-discomfort","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/integrativa.pt\/en\/dor-no-ombro-e-postura-como-a-biomecanica-influencia-o-desconforto\/","title":{"rendered":"Shoulder pain and posture: how biomechanics influences discomfort"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Shoulder pain is a frequent complaint and can arise at different ages and in various contexts. In many cases, it can be related to how the body organises itself and moves on a daily basis. Posture and movement habits influence how loads are distributed across the shoulder joints and muscles, and when these patterns are maintained over time, they can be associated with discomfort, stiffness, or functional limitation.<\/p>\n

It is important to mention that posture, in itself, does not always explain all pain. However, remaining for long periods in unchanging positions can favour tissue adaptations and altered shoulder biomechanics, making the region potentially more sensitive to exertion or repetitive movement.<\/p>\n

Shoulder biomechanics: shoulder blade, thoracic spine and movement control<\/h4>\n

The shoulder is a joint with a large range of motion, and its function depends on the coordination between various structures. Besides the glenohumeral joint, efficient shoulder movement involves the shoulder blade (or scapula), the collarbone, and the thoracic spine, in a set of interactions often described as the scapulohumeral rhythm.<\/p>\n

The scapula plays a significant role in the stability and orientation of the shoulder during arm movement. Its position and mobility can influence how the shoulder joint distributes loads, particularly in overhead movements or repetitive tasks. For this process to occur efficiently, adequate thoracic spine mobility and functional muscular control of the scapular region are generally important.<\/p>\n

When there are changes in thoracic spine mobility, excessive stiffness, or less efficient muscle control patterns, scapular positioning can be modified. In these situations, the shoulder may be loaded in a less favourable way, which over time can increase the demands on muscles, tendons and joint structures.<\/p>\n

How postural changes can influence shoulder function<\/h4>\n

The functioning of the shoulder depends on effective coordination between arm movement and scapular movement, the bone that connects the shoulder to the torso. When posture changes persistently, such as in situations of protracted shoulders, increased dorsal curvature, or reduced thoracic spine mobility, this coordination can be affected.<\/p>\n

These changes may be associated with:<\/p>\n