What is impingement syndrome

Shoulder impingement syndrome, also known as subacromial impingement syndrome, is a condition that occurs when the tendons and bursa (a fluid-filled sac) in the shoulder become compressed or pinched between the upper arm bone and the shoulder blade. This can cause pain, weakness, and limited mobility in the shoulder.

Shoulder impingement syndrome can be caused by a variety of factors, including overuse, poor posture, and shoulder instability. It is commonly seen in athletes who perform repetitive overhead motions, such as baseball pitchers and swimmers.

The symptoms of shoulder impingement syndrome include pain in the front or side of the shoulder, weakness in the arm, and difficulty lifting the arm above the shoulder. The pain may worsen with overhead movements or reaching.

Treatment for shoulder impingement syndrome typically involves physical therapy to help strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint and improve range of motion. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may also be used to help reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to help reduce inflammation and pain. If conservative treatments are not effective, surgery may be necessary to remove any bone spurs or damaged tissue that may be causing the impingement.