Shoulder Impingement

If reaching overhead or sleeping on your side hurts, shoulder impingement might be to blame. We can help you get relief so you can move comfortably again.

The rotator cuff — a group of muscles and tendons that encase your shoulder joint — makes it possible to perform all kinds of movement, from swimming the freestyle to pulling a book off a shelf. Shoulder impingement can happen when bones in the shoulder pinch or squeeze the tendons and the bursa (a fluid-filled sac) in the rotator cuff. This leads to pain and inflammation in the shoulder area.

Shoulder impingement is often caused by overuse of the rotator cuff. The condition is common among athletes and people with occupations that require heavy lifting or repetitive overhead movements. It can also develop due to wear and tear of the rotator cuff as we age.

Symptoms of shoulder impingement

Shoulder impingement can interfere with your ability to sleep and perform everyday tasks. Common symptoms include:

Sharp or aching pain in the shoulder that may intensify during certain movements such as reaching overhead or up behind your back
Pain that spreads from the front or top of your shoulder down your arms
Tenderness or swelling in the shoulder
Weakness or reduced range of motion in the shoulder

Early intervention for shoulder impingement can improve outcomes and prevent complications. Left untreated, shoulder impingement can lead to rotator cuff tears or arthritis in the shoulder. Consult a specialist if:

Shoulder pain persists for more than a few weeks
Pain gets worse over time or does not improve with rest
Pain is preventing you from doing routine activities
Your range of motion has become limited
You experience persistent pain at night when you lie on the affected side

Diagnosing shoulder impingement

To make a diagnosis, your orthopedic specialist will discuss your medical history and conduct a physical exam to assess for pain and evaluate your range of motion. They may also recommend imaging tests to confirm a diagnosis:

X-rays can help rule out other conditions such as arthritis and detect bone abnormalities.
MRIs provide detailed images of muscles and tendons and can be useful if your provider suspects more serious injury.
Ultrasound imaging uses sound waves to provide a real-time assessment of muscles and tendons as you move.

Treating shoulder impingement

Treatment depends on several factors, including the severity of your symptoms, your overall health and your activity level. We offer both nonsurgical and surgical options tailored to your individual needs.

Nonsurgical treatments

Many cases of shoulder impingement can be treated with nonsurgical methods:

Rest, ice and activity modification to help your shoulder recover
Anti-inflammatory medications to ease pain and swelling
Physical therapy to restore function; improve posture; and strengthen muscles in the shoulders, arm and chest
Corticosteroid injections for pain relief

Surgical treatments

You may benefit from surgery if other treatments are not working. Surgical options include:

Arthroscopic surgery, using minimally invasive techniques, to create more space for the rotator cuff
Open surgery for severe cases of impingement

Postoperative rehabilitation can help you further regain strength and mobility. While recovery looks different for everyone, most patients gradually return to the activities they enjoy.

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