What Is Shoulder Impingement and How Do You Fix It?

To diagnose shoulder impingement, a healthcare provider, typically an orthopedic specialist or physical therapist, will perform a thorough evaluation. This may include a physical examination, imaging studies like X-rays or MRI scans, and a discussion of your medical history and symptoms.

In many cases, shoulder impingement can be successfully treated without surgery. Conservative treatments include physical therapy, exercises to strengthen the shoulder, anti-inflammatory medications, and activity modification. Resting the affected shoulder and avoiding aggravating activities can also help.

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the non-surgical management of shoulder impingement. A physical therapist can design a customized exercise program to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint, improve flexibility, and correct posture issues.

If conservative treatments don’t provide relief, surgery may be considered. Surgical options for shoulder impingement include arthroscopic procedures that create more space in the shoulder joint and repair damaged tissues.

Your physical therapist will start by assessing your shoulder to determine the exact cause and severity of your impingement. They will look at your range of motion, strength, and posture to identify any contributing factors.

1. Begin sitting upright with your hands behind your head.
2. Slowly arch your back and let your elbows fall out to the sides.
3. You should feel a stretch in your chest. Hold briefly.
4. Return to an upright position and repeat.

1. Begin in a standing upright position with your elbow bent at 90 degrees and a towel roll tucked under your arm, holding a resistance band.
2. The anchor point should be on the side closest to your bent arm.
3. Slowly rotate your arm inward.

1. Begin lying face down on a table or bed with one arm hanging off the edge, with or without holding a dumbbell.
2. Keep your elbow straight and leading with the back of your hand
3. Raise your arm up and backward as far as is comfortable.
4. Return to the starting position and repeat.

1. Begin lying on your front with your arm hanging off the edge of a table or bed, with or without holding a dumbbell.
2. Keeping your elbow straight and thumb pointing up, raise your arm out to your side at a 90-degree angle.
3. Slowly lower your arm back down, then repeat the movement.

1. Begin lying face down on a table or bed with one arm bent at 90 degrees, with or without holding a dumbbell and hanging toward the floor.
2. Rotate your arm upward so it is parallel with your body.
3. Rotate it back down and repeat.

1. Begin in a standing upright position with your arms resting at your sides.
2. Slowly raise your arms diagonally at roughly a 30-degree angle from your body.
3. Lower your arms back to your sides.

Tip: Make sure to keep your elbows straight and avoid shrugging your shoulders. Try not to arch your lower back while raising and lowering your arms.

1. Begin in a standing upright position with your arms straight forward at shoulder height, holding the ends of a resistance band that is anchored behind you.
2. Press your arms forward, pulling your shoulder blades apart.
3. Return to the starting position and repeat.

Tip: Make sure to keep your arms straight and do not shrug your shoulders. There should be a small amount of movement during the exercise.

Recovery from shoulder impingement depends on factors like the severity of the condition and how well you adhere to treatment. With proper care, many people experience significant improvement in their shoulder function and a reduction in pain over time.

To prevent shoulder impingement or reduce the risk of recurrence, it’s important to maintain good posture, avoid overloading the shoulder with heavy weights, use proper lifting techniques, and perform regular shoulder-strengthening exercises. Additionally, listening to your body and seeking treatment for shoulder pain early can prevent the condition from worsening. It can also be beneficial to make lifestyle adjustments, such as using ergonomic equipment and modifying activities that strain your shoulder.

Shoulder impingement is a treatable condition, and seeking timely medical evaluation and following the recommended treatment plan can significantly improve your shoulder health and quality of life. If you suspect you have shoulder impingement or are experiencing shoulder pain, consult with a healthcare professional for a proper assessment and guidance.

Shoulder impingement is a common condition that can cause significant discomfort and restrict your daily activities. At your local PRO~PT clinic, we offer effective, evidence-based solutions to help you achieve lasting relief. Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back—schedule an appointment with PRO~PT today and take the first step towards a pain-free, active lifestyle. Request an appointment today.