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Impingement syndrome is a common cause of shoulder pain that occurs when soft tissues like tendons get squeezed or ‘pinched’ in the subacromial space. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of impingement syndrome including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options.
What is Impingement Syndrome?
Impingement syndrome, also known as subacromial impingement syndrome, refers to compression of tendons or bursa in the subacromial space. The subacromial space is the area between the acromion (top part of the shoulder blade) and the humeral head (ball of the upper arm bone). When this space narrows due to activities like overhead motions or poor posture, the structures passing through this space can get compressed or pinched leading to inflammation and pain.
Causes of Impingement Syndrome
There are several factors that can contribute to impingement syndrome:
– Overhead repetitive motions: Activities like swimming, tennis, baseball etc. that involve overhead arm motions put stress in the subacromial space and increase risk of impingement.
– Poor posture: Slouching posture with rounded shoulders can decrease the subacromial space causing impingement.
– Injury or trauma: Direct injury to the shoulder like a fall on an outstretched arm can damage soft tissues and lead to impingement.
– Age-related changes: As we age, the acromion bone starts protruding into the subacromial space making it more narrow and prone to impingement.
– Pre-existing conditions: Conditions like rotator cuff tears, tendinitis, bursitis and arthritiscan further decrease space and exacerbate impingement.
Symptoms of Impingement Syndrome
The classical sign of impingement syndrome is shoulder pain that gets worse with overhead activities or outward rotation of the arm. Some other common symptoms include:
– Pain that may radiate down the arm
– Pain at night or with overhead activities like brushing hair or reaching for items on high shelves
– Tenderness to palpation over front and side of shoulder
– Cracking or popping sounds with shoulder movement
– Weakness in lifting arm overhead
– Limited range of shoulder motion
Diagnosis of Impingement Syndrome
Doctors can diagnose impingement syndrome based on physical exam findings and ruling out other causes through appropriate tests. Diagnostic tests may include:
– X-rays to check for bone abnormalities
– MRI to evaluate soft tissues like rotator cuff and bursa
– Ultrasound to visualize structures in real time
– Arthroscopy for a closer internal look at joints and tissues
Treatment Options for Impingement Syndrome
Conservative non-surgical approaches are usually the first line of treatment for impingement syndrome:
– Activity modification like avoiding painful positions
– Physiotherapy involving strengthening, stretches and manual therapies
– Medications like oral NSAIDs and corticosteroid injections
– Lifestyle changes like posture correction
If conservative options don’t provide relief, surgical treatments may be considered including:
– Subacromial decompression to widen space
– Acromioplasty to shave acromion bone
– Repair of other lesions like rotator cuff tears
Post-surgery, gentle rehabilitation is important for regaining movement and strength. With proper management, symptoms of impingement syndrome can be effectively managed in most cases.
Physiotherapy: Cornerstone of Conservative Management
Physiotherapy plays a key role in the conservative management of shoulder impingement. The primary goals of physiotherapy are to address postural faults, restore optimal shoulder mechanics, reduce inflammation and enhance muscle strength and flexibility.
Common physiotherapy techniques used include:
– Postural correction advice and exercises
– Cryotherapy or ice for pain management
– Soft tissue mobilization of tight muscles
– Joint mobilizations to improve mobility
– Strengthening program focusing on rotator cuff and scapular muscles
– Stretching of chest, shoulders, triceps and other tight areas
– Manual therapies like manipulation under anesthesia
– Therapeutic exercises targeting functional activities
– Ergonomic advice and modifications
Physiotherapists specializing in manual therapy and sports injuries can design a tailored treatment plan based on each individual’s presentation and functional goals. With diligent home exercises and physiotherapy sessions, many patients see significant reductions in pain and improvements in function without needing surgery.
Conclusion
In summary, impingement syndrome is a common cause of shoulder pain resulting from mechanical compression of tissues in the subacromial space. While overhead activities, poor posture and age are risk factors, appropriate conservative management including physiotherapy aimed at postural corrections and strengthening usually provides excellent relief in mild to moderate cases. Surgical intervention should only be considered if all non-invasive options have failed to alleviate symptoms. With a multifaceted treatment approach and lifestyle modifications, most patients are able to manage their shoulder impingement successfully.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemicals and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc.
