Post-Stroke Shoulder Pain: Why It Happens and What You Can Do About It

If you’ve had a stroke, chances are your shoulder has tried to steal the spotlight at some point.

Not in a good way.

Post-stroke shoulder pain is one of the most common (and most frustrating) barriers to regaining arm movement—and one of the easiest to overlook. It’s sneaky. Many people unknowingly fall into the “pain-avoidance loop,” which leads to less movement, more stiffness, and the vicious cycle of learned non-use driven by painIf that’s you, you’re not alone. More importantly: you are not stuck.

Let’s talk about why post stroke shoulder pain happens… and what you can do to take your shoulder back.

Why Is My Shoulder Hurting After a Stroke?

The answer usually comes down to two main culprits: muscle imbalance and loss of control.

When your brain has trouble communicating with the muscles that keep your shoulder joint stable, things go a little haywire:

• The arm might hang or pull downward.
• The muscles that are supposed to hold the joint in place weaken.
• You may develop stiffness, spasticity, or even a condition called frozen shoulder (where it feels like your joint has turned to stone).

The result? A perfect storm of discomfort, limited movement, and frustration.

What Happens If I Don’t Treat It?

I’ll be honest: this is not something you want to “wait and see.”

The longer you avoid moving your arm or shoulder, the stiffer and more painful it becomes. That leads to a vicious cycle—less movement → more pain → even less movement.

But the good news? You can absolutely break the cycle.

What Can Help?

Gentle, Consistent Movement

If you have been around awhile, you have heard me say…. the shoulder LOVES small, controlled movement. There are specific times where I don’t mind being accused of repeating myself.

Start early. Move often. Don’t be aggressive, but don’t let it sit idle either. There is a sweet spot that you must be intentional about finding.

Positioning

Support the arm throughout the day—while sitting, lying down, or transferring. Avoid letting it hang unsupported.

Stretching and Range-of-Motion Work

This is where I see people make the biggest gains, especially when done consistently.
If passive stretching is difficult on your own or with a partner, this is where the Shoulder Flex could be beneficial.

The Shoulder Flex was designed specifically for situations like this. It allows you to gently and safely stretch the shoulder joint without the need for complicated equipment or someone else’s help.
I’ve recommended it countless times to clients who want to regain comfort and mobility at home between therapy sessions.

It’s simple. It’s safe. And most importantly, it works with your body—not against it.

You can check it out in [our store here → insert your link].

Neuromuscular Re-education

Working with a therapist to retrain the brain-muscle connection is vital. This can include guided movement, manual therapy, or electrical stimulation.

Final Thought

Post-stroke shoulder pain feels heavy—literally and figuratively.
But remember: pain is not permanent. The body (and brain) have an incredible ability to adapt and recover when given the right tools and consistent encouragement.

You’re already doing the hardest part: showing up and wanting better.
The next step is small, controlled action… over and over again.

Small steps lead to BIG change. Focus on the 1%.

If your shoulder is ready for a little help, take a look at the Shoulder Flex.
It just might be the missing piece to get you moving—and feeling—better.

Try It for Yourself

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