Shoulder Impingement Syndrome is widely known as a common cause of shoulder pain. This occurs when there is impingement of tendon or bursa in the shoulder from bones of the shoulder. The risk factor for shoulder impingement syndrome is an overhead activity of the shoulder, especially repeated activity such as painting, lifting, swimming, tennis and other overhead sports. Other risk factors that can contribute to the development of shoulder impingement syndrome include bone and joint abnormalities.
With shoulder impingement syndrome, pain is persistent and has a negative impact on daily activities. For example, movements, like straining behind your back or stretching your head to wear a coat or blouse, can cause pain.
As time goes on, shoulder impingement syndrome can result in inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons (tendinitis) and bursa (bursitis). If not treated properly, the rotator cuff tendons can start to thin and tear.
What are the Causes of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome?
Majority of the cases of shoulder impingement syndrome are caused by excessive use. Repeated use of the shoulder can inflame the tendons in the shoulder, causing it to "catch" the upper part of the shoulder bone. In other cases, there are no known causes.
Another thing that can cause shoulder impingement syndrome is when there is insufficient space between the acromion and the rotator cuff. Usually, the rotator cuff tendons can easily slide under the acromion each time your arm is raised; however, it is normal to have a certain degree of friction or tightness of tendons and bursas.
In addition, bony spurs found on the beneath the surface of the acromion may contribute to shoulder impingement syndrome and the inflammation associated with a rotator cuff tear can also lead to impingement pain. Bad posture and tight anterior chest wall muscles (pectoral muscles) can also contribute to an impingement syndrome.
What are the Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome?
Below are some symptoms of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome:
• Shoulder pain when your arm is at shoulder height and/or when your arm is above your head.
• Shoulder pain that can extend from shoulder to toe.
• Pain while lying on a painful shoulder.
• Shoulder pain when you are resting as your condition worsens.
• Muscle weakness or pain during touch or making attempts to lift objects.
• Pain when you are trying to put your hand behind your back or head.
• Pain when you are trying to use the seat belt.
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome Treatment
Treatment for Shoulder Impingement Syndrome requires restoring the circulation and blood flow to the affected structures in your shoulder. Pain is caused when swelling, inflammation and decreased circulation generate a blockage, which causes blood flow to be interrupted or slowed. Treatment for this issue requires breaking up the accumulated fluids in your shoulder to allow for improved healing and quicker recovery.
Products recommended for symptoms of swelling, redness, pain, and inflammation, and if coolness makes your pain feel better:
Ice Substitute Poultice
Bruise Relief Liniment
Muscle Therapy Massage Oil
Products recommended when swelling and inflammation are gone, but you still feel pain, stiffness, weakness, and/or sensitivity in cold and damp weather, and if heat makes your pain feel better:
Pain Relief Liniment
Tendon and Ligament Poultice
Muscle Therapy Massage Oil
