Shoulder Impingement

Your shoulder is capable of a wide range of motion which also makes it prone to injury. The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint which is surrounded by many structures including bones, muscles, tendons, and bursa – small fluid-filled sacs that decrease friction in your joints. Shoulder impingement syndrome is a painful condition described as tendinitis and/or bursitis that results from abnormal compression of the bursa and rotator cuff tendons.

Shoulder impingement syndrome is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain. It is often caused by wear and tear over time but can be accelerated with repetitive overhead activities.

Persistent shoulder impingement without proper treatment can lead to thinning of the rotator cuff which can make you more vulnerable to tears. Biceps tendinitis can sometimes accompany shoulder impingement.

Symptoms

Shoulder pain, especially with overhead activities, repetitive lifting, or when reaching behind the back
Pain to the touch especially on the outer shoulder
Pain that worsens at night or if laying on affected arm
Stiffness, limited range of motion, or weakness of affected limb

Causes

Repetitive overhead activities
Conditions affecting the bone such as bone spurs or arthritis

Risk Factors

Participating in some sports such as swimming, throwing, gymnastics, or volleyball
Occupations that require repetitive activity at or above shoulder level
Joint laxity or instability
Age – degeneration typically increases overtime
Smoking
Excess weight

Diagnosis

Physical examination to evaluate strength and mobility of the shoulder
X-ray to show bone health
MRI or ultrasound to show soft tissue health and determine the extent and location of the tear

Treatment Options

RICE therapy: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
Nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief
Steroidal injections for pain relief
Physical therapy
Surgical repair may be recommended in severe cases