Trouble Reaching Behind the Back – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Trouble Reaching Behind the Back – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment at Emirates Hospitals Group

At Emirates Hospitals Group, we understand that difficulty reaching behind the back can interfere with daily activities such as dressing, personal hygiene, and sports performance. This limitation in movement is often associated with shoulder dysfunction, joint stiffness, or muscle weakness. Identifying the underlying cause is essential for effective treatment and restoring mobility.

Causes of Trouble Reaching Behind the Back

Several conditions can contribute to restricted shoulder movement, including:

• Rotator Cuff Injury – Damage to the rotator cuff tendons, often caused by overuse or injury, can result in pain and limited shoulder mobility.
• Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) – A condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, progressively limiting movement.
• Shoulder Impingement Syndrome – Occurs when the rotator cuff tendons are compressed between the bones of the shoulder, leading to pain and restricted movement.
• Arthritis – Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in the shoulder joint can cause stiffness, pain, and difficulty in movement.
• Labral Tear – Damage to the cartilage in the shoulder joint can cause pain, instability, and reduced range of motion.
• Muscle Weakness or Imbalance – Weakness in the shoulder muscles, particularly the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers, can affect arm mobility.
• Nerve Compression (Cervical Radiculopathy) – Pinched nerves in the neck can cause weakness, numbness, or pain that limits shoulder movement.
• Fractures or Previous Shoulder Injuries – Bone fractures, dislocations, or surgical procedures can lead to long-term stiffness and reduced flexibility.
• Postural Issues – Poor posture or prolonged inactivity can contribute to muscle tightness and restricted shoulder movement.

Diagnosis of Trouble Reaching Behind the Back

A thorough evaluation by a specialist at Emirates Hospitals Group is essential to determine the cause of shoulder restriction. Diagnostic methods may include:

• Medical History and Physical Examination – Assessing shoulder range of motion, pain triggers, and functional limitations.
• X-ray and MRI Scans – Identifying joint damage, soft tissue injuries, or structural abnormalities.
• Ultrasound – Evaluating tendon and ligament health in the shoulder.
• Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies – Assessing nerve function if a neurological cause is suspected.

Treatment for Trouble Reaching Behind the Back

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Physical Therapy – Stretching and strengthening exercises to improve shoulder mobility and function.
• Medications – Anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers to reduce discomfort.
• Corticosteroid Injections – Targeted injections to relieve pain and inflammation in severe cases.
• Shockwave Therapy – A non-invasive treatment option for tendon-related conditions.
• Manual Therapy and Postural Correction – Hands-on techniques to improve joint mobility and correct muscle imbalances.
• Surgical Intervention – In cases of severe rotator cuff tears, labral injuries, or advanced arthritis, surgery may be required to restore movement.
• Lifestyle Modifications – Ergonomic adjustments, posture improvement, and activity modifications to prevent further restrictions.

If you are experiencing persistent difficulty reaching behind your back, seeking expert care at Emirates Hospitals Group can help diagnose the cause and provide an effective treatment plan for restoring mobility and function.

Related Treatments

• Rotator Cuff Injury