Summer in Kamloops is too good to miss. From paddling the Thompson, swinging a golf club, or working in the yard to carrying kids or playing ball in the park—this is the season to move.
But if your shoulder pain is creeping in (again), you’re not alone.
At Well+Able Integrated Health, we help people get back to doing what they love—without flaring up their pain or relying on outdated advice. Here’s how to make the most of summer, even with cranky shoulders.
Why Does Shoulder Pain Get Worse in Summer?
You’re probably more active this time of year—and that’s great. But a sudden jump in repetitive movements (like gardening, painting, paddling, or playing catch) can wake up old injuries or stir up a shoulder that’s been stiff and underused all winter.
Common causes of shoulder pain we see this time of year:
Rotator cuff irritation from overuse or a spike in load
Shoulder impingement from repetitive overhead tasks
Frozen shoulder or stiffness after being less active for a while
Neck or upper back tension that radiates into the shoulder
But here’s the thing: pain isn’t always about damage. Often, it’s your body saying, “Hey, this is a bit much right now.” The good news? We can work with that.
What Actually Helps
Here are four simple strategies to stay active and support your shoulder, without obsessing over perfect form or cutting out the fun.
1. Ease Into It
Jumping into hours of paddling or yard work after a long break can be a recipe for irritation. Instead, build up gradually. Take breaks. Switch tasks. Don’t wait until your shoulder is yelling at you.
2. Warm Up the Right Way
A quick pre-activity warm-up gets your blood flowing and joints ready. Try this before your next adventure:
10 arm circles forward and back
10 shoulder shrugs and rolls
Reach overhead and across your body gently
This isn’t about preventing “injury”—it’s about reminding your brain and body that movement is safe.
3. Forget Perfect Posture
Let’s be clear: posture is not the enemy.
Slouching doesn’t cause shoulder pain
Sitting “wrong” isn’t dangerous
You don’t need to constantly “fix” your posture
The research is clear—sitting or standing a certain way isn’t what’s driving your pain. In fact, being told to worry about posture might actually make things worse.
What helps instead?
Move in ways that feel good
Vary your positions often
Try a different position if something hurts
Posture only really matters when it helps improve performance (like in the gym) or reduces symptoms in the moment. Otherwise, all positions are welcome.
4. Move More (Not Less)
Shoulder pain often improves when you move more, just in manageable, meaningful ways. We can help you build a plan that includes simple movements, strengthening exercises, and activities you enjoy.
When to Reach Out
If your shoulder pain:
Lingers more than a few days
Gets worse with activity
Interrupts your sleep or daily routine
…it’s time to come in for an assessment.
We’ll help you figure out what’s going on, offer hands-on relief, and build a plan that fits your goals. No cookie-cutter routines. No lectures about posture.
You Don’t Have to Miss Out
Summer in Kamloops only comes once a year—don’t sit it out because of pain that can be addressed. Whether you're chasing kids, hiking Peterson Creek, or casting a line on the river, we’re here to help you move well and feel strong.
👉 Book an assessment and get back to the fun.