The Chain Reaction

Movement & Recovery

“Pain doesn’t always show up where the problem starts.”

Shoulder Pain? The Problem Might Be Lower Than You Think.

I had a conversation today with a client who came in complaining about shoulder pain.

Now, shoulder issues can be complex—and they always deserve proper assessment—but the big takeaway from our chat was this:

Pain isn’t always the problem. It’s often the symptom.

In this case, the client was laser-focused on their shoulder—the site of the discomfort.
But what I noticed was something deeper: their pelvis was out of position.

That imbalance affected their thorax (ribcage), which in turn impacted the shoulder’s mechanics.

Everything Is Connected

The body works as a system—not as isolated parts.
When one piece is out of alignment, other areas compensate.

And over time, those compensations can lead to tightness, imbalance, and eventually… pain.

Maybe you’ve experienced something similar:

• Your back tightens up after a long day

• Your neck aches from sitting too long

• Your shoulder flares up after a workout

The issue might not be where you feel it—it might be further down the chain.

How to Start Fixing the Foundation

While we can’t solve everything through an email, we can start improving posture, reducing strain, and re-aligning the system.

Here are three places to start:

1. Be Pelvis-Aware

Find neutral. Not overly arched, not tucked under—just balanced.

2. Train Your Glutes

Focus on exercises that activate the glutes without shifting tension into the lower back or hamstrings.

3. Strengthen Your Core

Build both upper and lower abdominal strength to stabilize the pelvis and support the spine.

Watch: How to Find Your Pelvic Position

When these three areas work together, your body moves more efficiently—and often, those nagging pains start to fade.

Final Thought

Your body is a system of connections.
Address the root, not just the symptom.

By restoring balance between your pelvis, core, and shoulders, you give your body the foundation it needs to move—and feel—its best.

— Coach Shelby and The Shelby Trained Team