Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Shoulder impingement occurs when the rotator cuff tendons and bursa become pinched or irritated beneath the shoulder blade's upper bone (acromion) during movement.

Symptoms

• Persistent shoulder ache or sharp pain when reaching overhead or behind the back
• Pain radiating down the side of the upper arm
• Muscle weakness and joint stiffness

Causes

• Repetitive overhead arm motion
• Inflamed rotator cuff tendons or bursitis
• Bone spurs narrowing the subacromial space

Risk Factors

• Overhead athletes (swimmers, baseball players, tennis players)
• Manual occupations (painters, carpenters, construction workers)
• Natural age-related wear and prior shoulder injuries

Diagnosis

A comprehensive physical examination paired with imaging studies, including X-rays to detect bone spurs and MRI scans to evaluate soft-tissue damage.

Treatment

• Non-Surgical: Rest, anti-inflammatory medication, targeted physical therapy, and cortisone injections.
• Surgical: Arthroscopic subacromial decompression to widen the space around the tendons if conservative care fails.