What is Shoulder Impingement Syndrome?

Shoulder impingement syndrome (SIS) is a common cause of shoulder pain, often affecting those who engage in repetitive overhead movements. This condition occurs when the rotator cuff tendons become pinched in the sub-acromial space, leading to inflammation, discomfort, and limited mobility.

If you’ve ever felt a sharp pain while brushing your hair, putting on clothes, or performing overhead movements like swimming or throwing, SIS might be the culprit. It accounts for 36% of all shoulder injuries and is especially common among individuals aged 45–64.

Causes of Shoulder Impingement

Primary Causes:Structural issues such as bony spurs or osteoarthritis can narrow the sub-acromial space, making impingement more likely.

Secondary Causes:

• Poor posture or muscle imbalances in the shoulder girdle.

• Weakness in the rotator cuff muscles, leading to instability.

• Overuse injuries from activities like swimming, tennis, or weightlifting.

Repetitive movements or traumatic events such as falls can also trigger impingement, especially if proper techniques or postural habits are not maintained.

Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement

Common signs include:

• Pain during an “arc” of movement, particularly at or above shoulder height.

• Discomfort when lying on the affected shoulder or during rest.

• Weakness when lifting or reaching.

• Pain extending from the shoulder to the elbow.

These symptoms can worsen over time if left untreated, potentially leading to complications like frozen shoulder or tendon tears.

How is Shoulder Impingement Diagnosed?

Diagnosis often involves a combination of physical assessments and imaging techniques:

• Manual tests to evaluate pain and range of motion.

• Ultrasound or X-rays to detect structural abnormalities or soft tissue injuries like bursitis or rotator cuff tears.

Treatment Options for Shoulder Impingement

Effective treatment requires a multi-stage approach, focusing on relieving pain, restoring function, and preventing recurrence:

1. Early Stage:

   • Manual therapy, including sports massage, to alleviate pain and reduce tightness in the shoulder muscles.

   • Anti-inflammatory treatments and rest to minimize irritation.

2. Mid Stage:

   • Postural correction to address muscle imbalances and improve scapular control.

   • Specific exercises to strengthen the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles.

3. Advanced Stage:

   • Incorporation of high-speed, agility, and proprioceptive exercises for athletes.

   • Gradual return to sports or occupational tasks under guidance.

Massage therapy plays a key role in relieving tightness, restoring circulation, and promoting healing in the affected tissues. Techniques like trigger point therapy and deep tissue massage can be especially beneficial.

Preventing Recurrence

To avoid recurring shoulder impingement, it’s essential to:

• Maintain good posture, especially during repetitive tasks.

• Strengthen the shoulder girdle muscles and thoracic spine.

• Avoid overloading the shoulder joint without adequate warm-up and technique.

When to Seek Help

Shoulder impingement can be stubborn, with recovery times varying from 3–6 months. Seeking timely intervention from a professional therapist can significantly improve outcomes and prevent chronic issues.

At Uplift Wellness in Redruth, we specialise in treating sports injuries like shoulder impingement through tailored massage and rehabilitation programs. Book your appointment today to get back to feeling your best.