Why Does the Back of My Shoulder Hurt During Wind-Up?

by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul

In sports such as baseball, badminton, or tennis, the wind-up phase—bringing the arm backward—is a key motion.
But when pain is felt only in the back of the shoulder during this movement, it may be more than just a simple muscle ache.
Let’s explore the possible causes and how chiropractic care, including upper cervical correction, can help address this issue.


1. Tightness or Contracture of the Posterior Capsule

The shoulder joint is surrounded by a capsule. When the posterior capsule becomes tight, often from overuse or poor posture, it can lead to pulling pain in the back of the shoulder during wind-up motions.


2. Dysfunction of the Infraspinatus and Teres Minor Muscles

These two external rotator muscles play a critical role in shoulder stability. If they're overused or inflamed, patients may experience sharp pain or weakness localized to the back of the shoulder during rotation.


3. Posterior Impingement Syndrome

This condition occurs when the greater tuberosity of the humerus collides with the back of the glenoid cavity during overhead or wind-up motions. It’s particularly common in throwing athletes and can cause posterior-superior shoulder pain.


4. Scapular Dyskinesis

Proper shoulder movement requires synchronized motion of the scapula and thoracic spine. When the scapula fails to move correctly, it can lead to uneven stress on the rotator cuff and posterior shoulder pain.


5. Misalignment of the Upper Cervical and Thoracic Spine

Even slight misalignments in the upper cervical (C1–C2) or thoracic spine can alter shoulder mechanics and cause chronic tension and pain in the posterior shoulder area. These cases often benefit from a more integrated approach to diagnosis and treatment.


Therapeutic Approach: Chiropractic Care Including Upper Cervical Correction

At Cheolho Son Rehabilitation Medicine Clinic, we approach shoulder pain not as an isolated issue, but as part of a larger system involving the cervical spine, thoracic spine, scapula, and shoulder joint.

Our treatment includes:

  • Precise upper cervical chiropractic adjustments to optimize neuro-musculoskeletal function

  • Thoracic and scapular mobility work to reduce mechanical stress on the shoulder

  • If necessary, ultrasound-guided injection therapy may be provided to support inflammation control and tissue healing


Posterior shoulder pain during the wind-up phase is common, but not always simple.
An integrative approach that addresses both spinal alignment and shoulder mechanics can help you move and live more comfortably.

👍Consultation and Appointment Information

Son PMR & Chiropractic Clinic( 2nd floor, 229-1 Gucheonmyun-Ro, Gangdongu, Seoul, South Korea) 

by  Dr Son MD & DC 
Contact: 02-482-8875 in Seoul( +82-2-482-8875)

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