Shoulder Impingement in Markham: Causes and Treatment

If you’re dealing with persistent shoulder pain and discomfort, you might be facing a condition known as shoulder impingement. This article provides an in-depth look at shoulder impingement, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention strategies to help you manage and overcome this condition.

What is Shoulder Impingement?

Shoulder impingement, also known as impingement syndrome, occurs when the rotator cuff tendons in the shoulder are intermittently trapped and compressed during certain movements. This condition can lead to pain, inflammation, and a reduced range of motion. Understanding the intricacies of shoulder impingement can help you take proactive steps towards prevention and treatment. Here’s a detailed overview of this condition:

Causes

Shoulder impingement can result from various factors, including:

• Repetitive Overhead Activities:Activities like swimming, tennis, painting, and even certain types of weightlifting can irritate the tendons and bursa in the shoulder. Repetitive movements cause microtrauma, which over time, can lead to inflammation and impingement.
• Anatomical Variations: Structural abnormalities, such as a hooked acromion, can limit space for the rotator cuff.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: As we age, the rotator cuff tendons can degenerate, losing their elasticity and strength. This wear and tear can make the tendons more susceptible to impingement, especially in individuals over 40.
• Previous Shoulder Injuries: Past injuries such as fractures or dislocations can alter shoulder biomechanics.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of shoulder impingement include:

• Pain: Pain is often felt on the front or side of the shoulder, especially when lifting the arm overhead, reaching behind, or lying on the affected side. This pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, intense discomfort.
• Weakness: Individuals with shoulder impingement may experience difficulty and discomfort when lifting or rotating the arm. This weakness can affect daily activities such as dressing, carrying groceries, or participating in sports.
• Reduced Range of Motion: Stiffness and a limited ability to move the shoulder are common. This can make it challenging to perform tasks that require arm elevation or reaching behind the back.
• Tenderness: The shoulder joint area may be tender to touch. Pressing on the front or side of the shoulder can elicit pain, indicating inflammation or irritation of the tendons.

The Importance of Early Intervention

Addressing shoulder impingement early is crucial to prevent further damage and maintain your active lifestyle. Ignoring symptoms or pushing through the pain can lead to more severe complications, such as rotator cuff tears or chronic shoulder pain.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves:

• Physical Examination: Healthcare providers assess pain, range of motion, and strength.
• Imaging: X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans can visualize structural issues, inflammation, and tendon tears.

Treatment for Shoulder Impingement

Treatment options for shoulder impingement include:

• Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that worsen symptoms is crucial. Resting the shoulder allows inflammation to subside and tissues to heal. Modifying how activities are performed can prevent further irritation.
• Physical Therapy: A tailored physical therapy program focuses on exercises to enhance flexibility, strength, and posture. Stretching exercises improve range of motion, while strengthening exercises target the rotator cuff and scapular muscles for better shoulder stability.
• Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to alleviate pain and inflammation.
• Corticosteroid Injections: Temporary relief by reducing inflammation.
• Surgery: In severe cases, procedures like arthroscopic subacromial decompression may be necessary to create more space for the rotator cuff.

Preventing

To prevent shoulder impingement:

• Proper Warm-Up: Before engaging in physical activities, ensure a proper warm-up to prepare the shoulder muscles and tendons. Gentle stretches and range-of-motion exercises can increase blood flow and flexibility.
• Strengthening Exercises: Focus on strengthening the rotator cuff and shoulder blade muscles. Exercises like shoulder presses, rows, and rotator cuff strengthening with resistance bands can improve stability and prevent impingement.
• Good Posture: Maintain proper posture during daily activities. Avoid slouching and keep your shoulders back and down to reduce strain on the shoulder joint. 
• Ergonomic Adjustments: Ensure workstations and sports techniques are shoulder-friendly. Adjust desk heights, chair positions, and computer screens to reduce shoulder strain. In sports, seek guidance from coaches or trainers to ensure proper techniques are used.

Choosing the Right Treatment Plan for You

Shoulder impingement is a common condition that can significantly impact daily activities and athletic performance. Early diagnosis and a mix of conservative treatments can effectively manage symptoms and prevent progression. If symptoms persist, seeking advice from a healthcare professional is recommended.

Your age, lifestyle, and the severity of your shoulder impingement all play a significant role in determining the most appropriate treatment plan. A healthcare provider specializing in sports medicine or musculoskeletal conditions can develop a personalized treatment plan to help you manage symptoms, restore proper shoulder function, and safely return to your desired level of activity.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

Don’t let shoulder impingement hold you back any longer. Take the first step towards recovery and improved shoulder health. Whether you’re an athlete looking to return to peak performance or someone seeking relief from daily discomfort, our team is here to support your journey to better shoulder health.

At Form and Function, our experienced physiotherapists in Markham specialize in the personalized care and treatment of shoulder impingement. We offer comprehensive assessments and tailored treatment plans to help you regain strength, flexibility, and comfort. Our goal is to provide you with the tools and support needed to overcome shoulder impingement and return to your daily activities and sports with confidence.

About the Author

Alex is a graduate of Master’s of Physical Therapy from Mcgill University. He brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in physiotherapy, specializing in a wide range of conditions, from sports injuries to chronic pain management. He takes a holistic approach to treatment, focusing not only on alleviating symptoms but also on addressing the underlying causes to promote long-term healing and resilience.

What truly sets Alex apart is his compassionate and supportive nature. He understands that embarking on the path to recovery can be daunting, and he is dedicated to providing you with the guidance, encouragement, and personalized care you need to succeed.

Whether you’re an athlete aiming to reach peak performance, an individual recovering from surgery, or someone looking to regain mobility and function, Alex is here to help you achieve your goals.

So, if you’re ready to take the first step towards a healthier, stronger you, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Alex today. Together, let’s embark on a journey to healing, strength, and vitality!

Book with Alex today and start your journey to a pain-free, healthier shoulder!