What Is Shoulder Impingement?
Shoulder impingement occurs when the top of the shoulder blade (the acromion) rubs against the rotator cuff tendons or the lubricating bursa beneath it. This friction leads to irritation, swelling and pain. Over time, this irritation can progress to more serious conditions such as rotator cuff tendinitis or tears.
Schedule Now with a Shoulder Specialist
Shoulder Impingement Symptoms
Shoulder impingement symptoms often start mildly but can worsen over time without treatment. Early signs may include:
- Pain or aching in the front or side of the shoulder
- Pain that radiates down the side of the arm
- Pain when lifting, reaching or throwing
- Stiffness and limited range of motion
As the condition progresses, symptoms can become more severe:
- Persistent pain, even at rest or during the night
- Loss of strength in the shoulder
- Difficulty with daily tasks like dressing, brushing your hair or fastening a seatbelt
If these symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, see a shoulder specialist before the problem worsens.
Shoulder Impingement Treatment
Most people experience significant improvement through nonsurgical treatment options, including:
- Rest and activity modification: Avoid or limit repetitive overhead activities.
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs): Help reduce pain and swelling.
- Physical therapy: Restores range of motion, strengthens muscles and improves posture.
- Corticosteroid injections: Can provide short-term relief from inflammation and pain if other treatments aren’t effective.
Most patients improve with consistent therapy and proper rest within several weeks to months.
Shoulder Impingement Surgery
If nonsurgical treatments do not relieve your pain, or if impingement is caused by bone spurs or structural narrowing, surgery may be recommended. The most common procedure is arthroscopic subacromial decompression, where the surgeon removes inflamed tissue or bone spurs to create more space for the rotator cuff to move freely.
This minimally invasive procedure typically allows for a quicker recovery and less postoperative pain compared to open surgery.
Shoulder Impingement Treatment at OrthoNebraska
Need help figuring out how to treat shoulder impingement in the Omaha area? At OrthoNebraska, we want to make sure that our patients feel understood, safe and confident to take on an appropriate treatment plan. With proper management, we can help you reduce pain levels and improve quality of life.
Schedule Now with a Shoulder Specialist
