Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

What is Shoulder Impingement Syndrome?

Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff become pinched or compressed between the bones in the shoulder joint. This condition is often associated with inflammation, which can lead to pain and restricted movement.

Impingement commonly affects individuals who perform frequent overhead motions, such as athletes and those with physically demanding jobs. The condition can range in severity, from mild irritation to chronic issues that significantly impact your quality of life.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to shoulder impingement syndrome. The most frequent causes include:

• Overuse and repetitive motion
• Shoulder instability or weakness
• Poor posture
• Structural abnormalities
• Age-related changes

Identifying and addressing risk factors early can contribute to effective management and prevention of shoulder impingement syndrome.

Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement

Symptoms of shoulder impingement can range from mild to severe. Common signs include:

• Persistent pain, particularly when lifting your arm or reaching overhead.
• Weakness in the arm that makes simple tasks challenging.
• A "catching" or "locking" sensation in the shoulder during movement.
• Limited shoulder range of motion.
• Pain that worsens while lying on the affected shoulder or during rest.

If these symptoms disrupt your daily activities or do not improve over time, seeking a professional evaluation is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnosing Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Our thorough diagnostic process ensures you receive an accurate diagnosis and effective care. This evaluation typically includes:

• Comprehensive medical history and symptom review. Understanding your pain, lifestyle, and overall health helps us tailor your treatment plan.
• Physical examination. Assessing your shoulder's range of motion, strength, and areas of tenderness provides valuable insights into the condition.
• Advanced imaging. Diagnostic tools such as X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds help confirm the diagnosis and identify any structural abnormalities or associated conditions.

Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for developing a treatment plan that best addresses your specific needs.

Treatment Options for Shoulder Impingement

Treatment for shoulder impingement syndrome aims to reduce pain, restore function, and prevent further injury. Depending on the severity of your condition, both nonsurgical and surgical options are available.

Nonsurgical Treatment

Most cases of shoulder impingement can be effectively managed without surgery. Nonsurgical treatments may include:

• Physical therapy: A personalized therapy program focuses on improving posture, strengthening shoulder muscles, and increasing flexibility.
• Anti-inflammatory medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid injections: These injections can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation.
• Activity modification: Avoiding overhead movements or repetitive shoulder activities can promote healing and prevent further strain on the joint.

With consistent adherence to non-surgical treatment regimens, many patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms.

Surgical Options

If nonsurgical methods fail to relieve symptoms or if the impingement severely restricts shoulder function, surgery may be necessary.

One of the most common surgical procedures to treat this condition is arthroscopic shoulder decompression. This minimally invasive surgery removes the inflamed tissue and decreases friction within the joint to alleviate impingement.

Our skilled surgeons specialize in advanced, minimally invasive techniques to reduce recovery time and improve long-term outcomes.

Why Choose Our Physicians for Shoulder Pain?

At the Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland Division, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional care for shoulder-related conditions.

Our board-certified orthopedic specialists bring years of experience in treating shoulder injuries and disorders. From diagnosis to recovery, we provide a full spectrum of care tailored to your lifestyle and goals.
Our commitment extends beyond treatment; we prioritize your comfort, well-being, and long-term health goals. Utilizing state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment technologies, we ensure precision and effectiveness throughout your treatment and recovery journey.

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