Why Shoulder Pain Deserves More Attention Than You Think
A Message from Dr. Matt DiPaola in Support of National Shoulder & Elbow Week
Good morning from Amherst, NY! In today’s video, Dr. Matt DiPaola takes a moment before clinic hours to talk about something many people overlook—shoulder pain—and why National Shoulder & Elbow Week (May 17th) deserves your attention.
You might not think much about your shoulders—until something goes wrong. But when shoulder pain strikes, it can disrupt your life in big ways.
Common Reasons People See Dr. DiPaola for Shoulder Pain:
Trouble Sleeping
One of the most frequent complaints Dr. DiPaola hears from patients is that they can’t sleep. Nighttime shoulder pain can be relentless, making it difficult to find a comfortable position and robbing you of quality rest.
Difficulty Reaching Overhead
Simple movements like reaching up to grab a dish or changing a light bulb can become painful or impossible. For workers in physical jobs—like electricians, drywallers, or warehouse employees—this can mean more than discomfort: it can mean time off work.
Reaching Behind Your Back
You may not realize how often you reach behind you until your shoulder says no more. Patients often mention trouble pulling a wallet from a back pocket or, for women, fastening a bra strap. These basic tasks become frustrating challenges when your shoulder isn’t functioning properly.
Why National Shoulder & Elbow Week Matters
This awareness week isn’t just about statistics—it’s about real people getting the help they need. Supporting this initiative means supporting research, improved treatments, and faster paths to recovery for the millions of people affected by shoulder and elbow pain each year.
“If you support National Shoulder & Elbow Week, you’ll be supporting people who are trying to find better treatments to help people sleep better, reach better—and yes—even get their wallet.” – Dr. Matt DiPaola
If shoulder pain is affecting your quality of life, you’re not alone—and help is available.