Shoulder pain can disrupt daily activities, and one common cause is impingement syndrome. This condition affects the shoulder joint, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and management options is the first step toward relief. Here is more information about shoulder impingement and available treatments:
What Is Impingement Syndrome?
Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when the soft tissues in the shoulder become pinched. The rotator cuff tendons and the subacromial bursa are located in a narrow space called the subacromial space. Swelling or inflammation of these tissues can reduce this space, leading to impingement.
This condition is also known as swimmer’s shoulder or thrower’s shoulder. It is common in athletes who perform repetitive overhead motions, but it has the potential to affect anyone. Consistent friction on the tendons and bursa can cause chronic inflammation and pain, impacting your range of motion.
What Causes It?
The primary cause of shoulder impingement is repetitive overhead arm movement. Activities like swimming, tennis, and painting can put stress on the shoulder joint, leading to inflammation. The rotator cuff tendons or the bursa can swell, reducing the subacromial space. Anatomical factors, such as a naturally smaller subacromial space or acromial bone spurs, may also contribute to the development of this condition, as these factors increase the likelihood of friction within the shoulder joint.
What Are the Symptoms?
Symptoms of shoulder impingement often develop gradually. You may notice pain in the front or side of your shoulder, and this discomfort may worsen with overhead activities. The pain may also be present at rest and interfere with sleep, particularly when lying on the affected side.
Another common symptom is shoulder weakness, which can make lifting or reaching difficult. You may experience a catching or grinding sensation when moving your arm. As the condition progresses, you may also notice decreased range of motion, making it challenging to perform simple tasks such as reaching behind your back.
How Can You Manage Them?
Management of shoulder impingement focuses on reducing pain and inflammation. Resting the shoulder and avoiding activities that cause pain are initial steps. Applying ice packs to the affected area also helps decrease swelling and provide temporary relief from the discomfort.
Physical therapy is often recommended to improve shoulder function. A physical therapist will guide you through exercises designed to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles and improve posture. These exercises help to increase the subacromial space and reduce the pressure on the affected tissues.
How Is Professional Guidance Beneficial?
Professional guidance is beneficial for an accurate diagnosis and a structured treatment plan. A healthcare provider will perform a physical examination and may order imaging tests, such as X-rays or an MRI. This helps to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential causes of shoulder pain.
Based on the evaluation, several treatment options may be utilized.
- Anti-inflammatory medicines: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help reduce pain and swelling.
- Subacromial injections: Corticosteroid injections provide pain relief by reducing inflammation directly in the subacromial space.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections: This treatment uses your own platelets to promote healing of the injured tissues.
A professional will determine the most appropriate course of action for your specific condition. They will monitor your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Manage Your Symptoms Today
If you are experiencing shoulder pain, seeking professional guidance is a beneficial step. A healthcare provider can offer a precise diagnosis and develop a comprehensive treatment strategy tailored to your needs. Taking action now can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
