SERVICES
Shoulder Conditions
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Overview
Shoulder impingement, a common condition, arises when the tendon within the shoulder begins to swell and rub painfully against the bone or tissue, resulting in pain when you raise your arm. It may arise due to various conditions such as a traumatic injury, irritation or general wear and tear of the joint.
Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement
Signs of shoulder impingement may begin gradually at first. However, the main symptoms are:
- Pain outside and at the top of the shoulder
- The pain often becomes worse at night
- Worsening pain when you raise your arm
- Arm weakness
- Tenderness over the affected region
- Pain that travels down the arm
Causes of Shoulder Impingement
Shoulder impingement develops from compression of the rotator cuff tendons and subacromial bursa when passing through the subacromial space.
Typical causes may be a result of the following:
- Excessive, strenuous overhead activities can place further strain on the shoulder, increasing the susceptibility to impingement.
- It's crucial to maintain proper posture, as rounded shoulders and excessive slouching can significantly increase the risk of shoulder impingement due to the restriction of the subacromial space.
- A traumatic injury, such as an unexpected blow to the shoulder, can significantly worsen impingement.
- It's important to understand that anatomical differences, such as naturally narrower subacromial spaces, can also play a significant role in shoulder impingement.
- Degeneration of the tendons occurs over time, increasing the risk of inflammation and pinching.
Diagnosing shoulder impingement is a thorough process. Your doctor will conduct a comprehensive physical examination, assessing the range of motion of your shoulder and the tenderness of the joint. This meticulous approach is designed to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Following this, your doctor may order additional tests, such as an X-ray and MRI, to confirm the diagnosis. These tests provide detailed insight into the structure of the joint, further enhancing the accuracy of the diagnosis.
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome FAQ:
Is shoulder impingement serious?
The severity may vary, depending on the case. It may lead to pain and affect mobility.
Do you need surgery for shoulder impingement?
Treatment varies, depending on the patient and the severity of the condition.
What conservative treatments exist for shoulder impingement?
Several non-surgical options include physical therapy, activity modification, and sufficient rest.
Why Choose Umhlanga Orthopaedic Surgeons?
Expert Care
Patient-Centered Approach
Comprehensive Solutions