Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

25 Oct

What Is Shoulder Impingement Syndrome?

Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when the tendons or bursa in the shoulder become irritated or compressed during movement, leading to pain and inflammation. This condition often affects individuals who frequently use their arms in overhead motions, such as athletes, manual laborers, or those involved in repetitive overhead activities. Shoulder impingement syndrome can limit shoulder function and cause chronic pain if left untreated. At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we offer specialized care for shoulder impingement syndrome, using a range of conservative and surgical treatment options to alleviate symptoms and restore shoulder mobility.

Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when the rotator cuff tendons or bursa (a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the joint) become trapped and pinched under the acromion, the bony part of the shoulder blade. This pinching leads to irritation, inflammation, and sometimes tearing of the rotator cuff tendons or the bursa.

The condition can occur due to overuse or structural abnormalities in the shoulder joint. Over time, repeated impingement can lead to more significant issues, such as tendinitis, bursitis, or rotator cuff tears. Shoulder impingement is common in individuals who perform repetitive overhead motions, such as swimmers, tennis players, or construction workers.

Causes of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Shoulder impingement syndrome can develop from various factors, including structural abnormalities in the shoulder joint, overuse, or poor posture. Common causes and risk factors include:

Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

The symptoms of shoulder impingement syndrome often develop gradually and may worsen with continued activity. Common signs and symptoms include:

Diagnosis of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, diagnosing shoulder impingement syndrome involves a comprehensive physical examination and imaging tests to assess the extent of the condition and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

1. Physical Examination: The doctor will assess your shoulder by checking for tenderness, weakness, and pain during movement. They may ask you to perform specific movements, such as raising your arm or rotating your shoulder, to evaluate your range of motion and determine the source of pain.

2. Imaging Tests:

Treatment for Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Treatment for shoulder impingement syndrome at Dr. Burke Orthopedics focuses on reducing pain, relieving inflammation, and restoring normal shoulder function. Both non-surgical and surgical treatment options are available, depending on the severity of the condition.

1. Non-Surgical Treatments:

2. Surgical Treatments: Surgery may be recommended if non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief or if there is significant structural damage in the shoulder. Surgical options include:

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from shoulder impingement syndrome depends on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach. For non-surgical cases, most patients experience significant improvement within several weeks to months with proper rest and physical therapy.

At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide personalized rehabilitation programs tailored to each patient’s needs, ensuring a full recovery and a return to pain-free movement.

Why Choose Dr. Burke Orthopedics for Shoulder Impingement Syndrome?

At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we offer expert care for patients with shoulder impingement syndrome, providing both conservative and surgical treatment options based on the severity of the condition. Our team of orthopedic specialists is dedicated to helping patients relieve pain, restore shoulder function, and prevent future injuries. With advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans, we ensure that each patient receives the best possible care for their specific condition. Whether you’re dealing with shoulder pain from sports or everyday activities, Dr. Burke Orthopedics is here to help you on your path to recovery.