Shoulder Impingement: Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Shoulder impingement is a common cause of shoulder pain and discomfort, particularly among athletes, manual laborers, and individuals who perform repetitive overhead motions. It occurs when the tendons and bursa of the shoulder joint become compressed or pinched between the bones of the shoulder, causing inflammation and irritation. While shoulder impingement can be a frustrating and painful condition, there are several effective treatments available, ranging from conservative measures like physical therapy and rest to more invasive options like surgery. In this article, we will delve into the causes, symptoms, and treatments for shoulder impingement, so you can better understand how to manage this condition and get back to your daily activities with minimal discomfort.

A shoulder impingement refers to a reduced space within the shoulder that causes pain and irritation.

What is a shoulder impingement?

A shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons and bursa of the shoulder joint are compressed or pinched between the bones of the shoulder, leading to inflammation, irritation, and pain. This condition is often caused by repetitive overhead motions or activities that involve the shoulder, such as weightlifting, swimming, or throwing a ball. When the tendons and bursa become impinged, they can become swollen and painful, leading to a decrease in shoulder range of motion and strength. Shoulder impingement can be a frustrating and painful condition, and if left untreated, it can lead to further shoulder problems and even shoulder tendon tears.

What are the most common causes of shoulder impingement?

Shoulder impingement can be caused by a variety of factors, but the most common cause is repetitive overhead motions or activities that involve the shoulder. This can include sports like baseball, tennis, or swimming, as well as occupations that require frequent overhead movements, such as painters, carpenters, or electricians. Other factors that can contribute to shoulder impingement include poor posture, shoulder instability, bone spurs, or a lack of shoulder strength or flexibility. Age can also be a factor, as shoulder impingement tends to be more common in individuals over the age of 40. Understanding the causes of shoulder impingement can help individuals take steps to prevent it from occurring, such as practicing proper technique when performing overhead movements and maintaining good posture.

What are the signs and symptoms of a shoulder impingement?

The signs and symptoms of shoulder impingement can vary from person to person, but the most common ones include pain, weakness, and a decreased range of motion in the shoulder. Pain is typically felt in the front or side of the shoulder and can worsen with overhead activities or reaching behind the back. Weakness in the shoulder can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks like lifting objects or reaching for items on high shelves. A decrease in range of motion can make it challenging to move the shoulder in certain directions, such as raising the arm above the head or rotating the arm outward. Other symptoms can include swelling, tenderness, and a clicking or popping sound in the shoulder joint. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

How do you treat a shoulder impingement?

The treatment for a shoulder impingement will depend on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. In many cases, conservative treatments such as rest, ice, and physical therapy can be effective in relieving pain and improving shoulder function. Physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles of the shoulder, improve range of motion, and correct any underlying postural issues that may be contributing to the impingement. Anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections may also be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove any bone spurs or other structures that are causing the impingement. If you are experiencing symptoms of a shoulder impingement, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.

What are the best exercises for a shoulder impingement?

Exercises are a crucial component of a comprehensive treatment plan for shoulder impingement. The best exercises for shoulder impingement typically involve strengthening the muscles of the rotator cuff, improving posture, and increasing flexibility. Some effective exercises for shoulder impingement include scapular retractions, shoulder external rotations, wall angels, and shoulder blade squeezes. These exercises are designed to improve the stability of the shoulder joint, reduce impingement, and improve range of motion. It is important to work with a physical therapist or qualified healthcare professional when starting an exercise program for shoulder impingement to ensure that you are performing exercises correctly and safely. Over time, regular exercise can help to alleviate pain, improve shoulder function, and prevent future episodes of shoulder impingement.

Does a shoulder impingement need surgery?

In most cases, a shoulder impingement can be effectively treated with conservative measures like rest, physical therapy, and medication. Surgery is typically reserved for cases where more conservative treatments have been ineffective, or when there is an underlying structural issue that is causing the impingement, such as a bone spur or a torn rotator cuff. In these cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the problematic structure and relieve pressure on the tendons and bursa of the shoulder. However, surgery is typically considered a last resort and is only recommended when the benefits outweigh the risks. If you are experiencing symptoms of shoulder impingement, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.

If you found this article helpful and would like to know more about other shoulder injuries and common causes of shoulder pain (including my own experience of 10 years of pain, treated eventually with bicep tendon surgery), check out my Shoulder Pain blog site.