Shoulder Impingement

What is Shoulder Impingement?

Whilst not technically a diagnosis “shoulder impingement” is a phenomenon we commonly see particularly in the gym environment. It occurs when the humeral head moves upwards hitting or impinging upon the acromion process (part of the shoulder blade).

Sufferers will typically notice a pinch when lifting the arm or exercises such as swimming, boxing, shoulder press, lateral raise, upright row, bench press varieties etc.

The impinging of the bone on bone may irritate and even damage the rotator cuff tendons that occupy the space between the humeral head and acromion. A sub acromial bursa also occupies this space and acts a lubricating strip. However with excessive impingement this may also become painful and inflamed.

How does Shoulder Impingement happen?

Desk jobs and poor posture can course thoracic kyphosis and forward head posture or stooping like the Hunchback of Notre Dame
Muscle imbalance can cause poor resting positions and movement biomechanics
Coexisting injury such as rotator cuff tendinopathy or tears
Training program errors such as balance and excessive volume or “too much too soon”
Poor exercise technique

What Get Active Physiotherapy does to treat Shoulder impingement.

Perform a subjective history and objective examination to determine which of the many potential causes are relevant to your case
Treat excessive muscle tension with massage or dry needling
Treat tight thoracic spines or shoulder joints with joint mobilization
Modify current training regimes to prevent further aggravation/damage
Prescribe customized rehabilitation to correct posture, muscle balance and biomechanics