Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Shoulder impingement is a painful pinching inside the shoulder that often occurs during movement. It happens when the top outer edge of the shoulder blade presses down on the rotator cuff tendons beneath it, causing irritation and discomfort.
Experts estimate that shoulder impingement accounts for nearly half of all shoulder pain cases. This condition is particularly common among athletes and individuals who perform physically demanding work.
Visit Dr Myhre if you’re experiencing shoulder pain or can’t move your shoulder comfortably.
Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
The main symptom is shoulder pain, often felt at the front of the shoulder. Other signs may include:
Tenderness in the shoulder
Pain radiating to the side of the arm
Worsening pain at night, affecting sleep
Pain may increase during activities such as:
Raising the arm overhead
Lifting or lowering the arm
Reaching forward or behind the back
Lying on the affected shoulder
Treatment & Management
Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms while the shoulder heals. Common approaches include:
Rest: Avoid activities that triggered the impingement.
Physical therapy: Exercises and stretches to strengthen the rotator cuff and improve mobility.
Ice: Apply cold packs (wrapped in a towel) to reduce pain and swelling.
Pain relievers: OTC NSAIDs can ease pain; use short-term and under guidance.
Corticosteroids: Prescription anti-inflammatory medications, including cortisone injections.
Surgery: Considered if other treatments fail; may involve removing part of the shoulder blade to relieve pressure on the rotator cuff.
