Shoulder Impingement

Also Known As “Swimmer's shoulder"

What is impingement syndrome?

Impingement syndrome is when there is a decrease in the subacromial space and the rotator cuff tendon abuts or rubs along the roof of the shoulder (acromion or coracoacromial ligament) with arm elevation or internal rotation. This can result in inflammation of the rotator cuff tendon and bursa (tendinitis and bursitis).

What causes impingement syndrome?

Poor posture or poor muscular coordination can cause the shoulder blade to not rotate properly and consequently decrease the subacromial space with arm elevation.
Overuse with fatigue or poor biomechanics can cause repetitive rubbing of the tendon on the acromial arch.
Shoulder stiffness and capsular tightness can cause the humeral head to elevate and decrease the subacromial space.
Bone spurs can also decrease the subacromial space.

What are the symptoms of impingement syndrome?

Cracking sound or clicking when elevating and rotating the arm
Sharp pain with certain movement such as elevating and rotating the arm or reaching
Dull pain at rest that may be more severe at night
Weakness with overhead activities

Shoulder Impingement: More than 200,000 US cases per year

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How is impingement syndrome treated?

At Han Orthopaedics, impingement syndrome is usually treated with non-surgical means. This is usually done with rest, activity modification, NSAIDs, injection, and physical therapy to stretch, strengthen, and improve biomechanics.

Surgery may be indicated if the rotator cuff is severely damaged or in rare cases when severe pain persists despite extensive conservative treatment. Surgery is done arthroscopically, and it involves removing the bursa (bursectomy), removing bone spurs or flattening a curved acromion (acromioplasty), and rotator cuff debridement or repair.

What is the recovery time for impingement syndrome?

Recovery is different from person to person. Most cases resolve in a few weeks to months.

Han Orthopaedics

Our team of medical experts is specialized in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders related to the musculoskeletal system. Our providers are dedicated to patients, and committed to excellence.