Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder impingement, also known as impingement syndrome, occurs when the rotator cuff tendons become irritated and inflamed as they pass through the narrow space between the acromion (part of the shoulder blade) and the humeral head (upper arm bone). This condition is common in individuals who perform repetitive overhead activities, leading to pain, reduced mobility, and difficulty performing daily tasks.
Common Symptoms
  • Pain in the shoulder, especially when lifting the arm or reaching overhead
  • Weakness in the shoulder
  • Difficulty reaching behind the back
  • Pain that worsens at night or with activity
  • A clicking or popping sensation in the shoulder
  • Common in Athletes: Shoulder impingement is frequently seen in athletes who engage in repetitive overhead movements, such as swimmers, baseball players, and tennis players.
  • Work-Related: People with occupations that require repetitive lifting or overhead work, such as painters and construction workers, are also at higher risk.
  • Early Treatment: Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further damage to the rotator cuff tendons and improve outcomes.
  • Physical Therapy Benefits: Strengthening the shoulder muscles and improving posture can significantly reduce symptoms and prevent recurrence.
Common symptoms include shoulder pain, especially when lifting the arm overhead, weakness in the shoulder muscles, limited range of motion, pain that worsens at night or with repetitive movements, and a clicking or popping sensation in the shoulder.
Shoulder impingement is caused by the trapping and compression of shoulder tendons or bursa between the bones of the shoulder joint. This can result from repetitive overhead movements, improper shoulder mechanics, or anatomical factors like bone spurs.
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, review of your symptoms and medical history, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound to assess the shoulder joint and identify any structural issues.
Treatment options include:Non-surgical: Rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and activity modification.Surgical: In severe cases, arthroscopic surgery may be performed to remove bone spurs, inflamed bursa, or other sources of impingement.
Recovery depends on the severity of the impingement and the chosen treatment. Non-surgical treatments may provide relief within a few weeks to months. Post-surgery recovery typically involves physical therapy to regain strength and mobility, with full recovery taking several months.
While not all cases can be prevented, you can reduce your risk by maintaining shoulder strength and flexibility through regular exercise, using proper techniques during sports and activities, and avoiding repetitive overhead movements.
If you experience persistent shoulder pain, weakness, or limited range of motion that interferes with your daily activities, it’s important to seek medical advice for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Risk factors include repetitive overhead activities, poor shoulder mechanics, aging, and certain sports or jobs that require frequent shoulder use.
Yes, adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular shoulder strengthening and flexibility exercises, avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms, and maintaining good posture can help manage and reduce symptoms.

Our Doctors that Specialize in Shoulder Impingement

Dr. Kyle A. Casadei
Dr. Allen R. Prince
Dr. Matthew R. Prince
Dr. Paul J. Siatczynski
Dr. Ryan M. Siwiec
Dr. Michael A. Yusaf

Center for Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine is a Michigan based, state-of-the-art Orthopedic facility. With Orthopedic offices in Auburn Hills, we’re able to serve our community with dedication and care. From young children to school students to our elderly population, we’re able to provide top notch Orthopedic care for necks, spines, knees, hips, joint and arthritis therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and more. Call us to see how our Orthopedic specialists can help you today!

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