Shoulder Pain in Active Adults — And Why Vestibular Screening Matters
Shoulder pain is common in active adults, especially when lifting overhead or doing repetitive activities. This guide explains how PT helps restore shoulder function and why dizziness or imbalance during movement may indicate an accompanying vestibular issue such as BPPV.
Why Shoulder Pain Happens
Common causes include:
Rotator cuff irritation
Labral issues
Impingement
Overuse
Poor overhead mechanics
These injuries often show up in CrossFit, pickleball, softball, volleyball, and weightlifting.
When Shoulder Pain Comes With Dizziness
Some patients feel dizzy or unsteady when:
Reaching overhead
Looking up
Turning the head quickly
This can indicate BPPV, which is triggered by specific head movements — often the same positions that irritate shoulder structures. Addressing only the shoulder pain may miss the full picture.
How Physical Therapy Helps
A Next Level therapist can:
Improve shoulder strength
Restore proper mobility
Rebuild overhead mechanics
Screen for vestibular issues
Perform BPPV maneuvers when needed
Combining both specialties helps active adults return to sport confidently.
