Shoulder impingement, also known as subacromial impingement, is a common form of shoulder pain that affects many people. It occurs when the tendons and bursa of the shoulder become irritated or inflamed as they pass through a narrow space between the humerus (upper arm bone) and the acromion (part of the shoulder blade).
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How To Tell If I Have Impingement
You may have sub acromial impingement if you are experiencing the following symptoms:
- pain localized to the front and top of the shoulder with potential for pain radiating down into the arm
- pain with overhead reaching, lifting, and carrying
- pain with shoulder motion AND DO NOT have popping/clicking (popping/clicking/catching may be a sign of a labral tear)
- difficulty with daily tasks due to pain/weakness
- your Doctor of Physical Therapy can differentially diagnose this condition through a full evaluation and assessment
What Limitations Would I Expect?
You may be experiencing a dull ache or sharp pain in your shoulder, particularly when lifting your arm overhead or reaching behind your back. You may also notice a limited range of motion and decreased strength in your shoulder muscles.
WHAT'S YOUR NEXT MOVE?
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Is Treatment Necessary?
It’s important to seek treatment for shoulder impingement to prevent the condition from worsening. If left untreated, the inflammation can lead to further damage to the tendons and bursa, resulting in chronic pain and limited function. Compensations with movement to avoid shoulder pain can increase the likelihood of neck and back pain.
What Are Possible Treatments?
Physical therapy is an effective treatment option for shoulder impingement. A physical therapist can help reduce pain, improve range of motion, and restore strength through a variety of techniques, including manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and modalities.
In the meantime, here are a few at-home tips to help manage shoulder pain:
- Ice: Apply ice to your shoulder for 15-20 minutes, 2-3 times per day to interrupt the pain-inflammation cycle.
- Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate your shoulder pain; we’ll get you back to them once we calm the pain down.
- Gentle Massage: The muscles around the injury site will begin to tighten, provide some self massage to the regional muscles for 5-10minutes once per day.
If your shoulder pain persists or worsens, it’s important to seek professional help. Call us for any questions and schedule your appointment when you’re ready build toward a pain free life.
Trusted Care for Lasting Results
Ready to reclaim your strength and mobility? Our expert physical therapists can help. Through personalized treatment plans, we empower you to overcome pain, injury, and limitations. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier, more active life.
Need Answers?
TriLumos Pysical Therapy offers a free consultation over the phone or in person. Get the answers you need from our Doctors of Physical Therapy and see how we can best help you.
Need Answers?
TriLumos Pysical Therapy offers a free consultation over the phone or in person. Get the answers you need from our Doctors of Physical Therapy and see how we can best help you.