Shoulder Impingement
Shoulder impingement is a common condition that affects millions of people each year. It occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles become compressed and pinched in the narrow space between the top of the arm bone and the acromion, which is a bony projection on the shoulder blade. This can result in pain, weakness, and limited mobility of the shoulder joint. Physical therapy is a non-invasive treatment option for shoulder impingement that can help reduce pain, restore strength and flexibility, and prevent further injury.
Causes of Shoulder Impingement:
Shoulder impingement can be caused by a variety of factors, including overuse, poor posture, and degenerative changes in the shoulder joint. Since there are 17 muscle attachments on the shoulder blade, muscle coordination is an extremely important factor when it comes to shoulder impingement. A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of developing impingement when one suddenly does overhead tasks such as swimming, or simply reaching up into a cupboard. Other risk factors include age, gender, and certain medical conditions, such as rotator cuff tears, bursitis, and arthritis.
Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement:
The symptoms of shoulder impingement can vary from person to person, but may include:
• Pain or discomfort in the front or side of the shoulder • Weakness or difficulty lifting the arm overhead • A popping or clicking sensation when moving the arm • Limited range of motion in the shoulder joint • Tenderness or swelling around the shoulder joint
Diagnosis of Shoulder Impingement:
A physical therapist will do a clinical exam to determine the cause of shoulder pain. This exam includes analyzing the patient’s movement strategy, testing strength of various muscles and a hands on assessment of the joint.
Treatment of Shoulder Impingement:
We recommend in-home physiotherapy for effective management of shoulder impingement. By coming into your usual environment, our therapists are able to address functional strategies used during everyday movement. It is sometimes difficult in a busy clinic to take the time to really analyze the movement system of a person. Our in-home physiotherapy sessions are 1:1 attention for the full duration of the session. Treatment typically includes a combination of neuromuscular retraining, specific exercises and manual therapy techniques designed to optimize the joint mechanics and improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the shoulder joint.
Exercises for Shoulder Impingement:
Your physical therapist will design a customized exercise program based on your specific movement impairments, muscle imbalances and muscle coordination issues. Often times, exercises include strengthening of scapular stabilizers in various positions and stretching/opening through the chest. Stiffness in the thoracic spine may also be addressed.
Conclusion:
Shoulder impingement can be a painful and limiting condition, but physical therapy can help reduce pain, restore strength and flexibility, and prevent further injury. If you are experiencing shoulder pain or limited mobility, consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and to develop an effective treatment plan. A physical therapist can design a customized exercise program to help you achieve your goals and improve your quality of life.
