Shoulder Impingement
Shoulder Impingement
Do you feel pain in your shoulder when you reach out for something or move your arm above your head? Or do you find it difficult to sleep at night because of your shoulder pain?
That pain might just be a result of shoulder impingement, and it is important to see a physical therapist right away. Call us today to request an appointment with one of our physical therapists.
Don’t take the risk by thinking your shoulder pain may go away on its own after a few days. Your pain may be a result of a deeper injury in your shoulder, and leaving it untreated will not only make it worse but hinder your everyday activities such as driving, reaching to a shelf, or opening a door.
By contacting a physical therapist, your shoulder is examined, and specific treatment plans are recommended for you right away. Getting treatment at the onset ensures your symptoms don’t get worse, and mobility and flexibility are restored to your shoulders.
What is Shoulder Impingement
Shoulder impingement is a common cause of shoulder pain, and it’s also known as swimmer’s shoulder or impingement syndrome.
It is common among swimmers and other athletes who use their shoulders a lot. It is thought to be 44%-65% of all shoulder pain complaints.
Shoulder Impingement occurs when your acromion, which is the top outer edge of your shoulder blade, rubs against your rotator cuff causing irritation and pain.
Your rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that attaches your shoulder to your arm bone (Humerus).
Your rotator cuff sits under the acromion. It helps you to raise your arm, and move it towards and away from your body.
Risk Factors for ShoulderSpain or Strain
A lot of factors can lead to a sprain or strain of the shoulder. They include:
- Your environment. Floors that are wet or slippery can lead to a fall, which could injure the shoulder
- Sports. athletes who play sports that require them to move their shoulders in a repetitive motion are more prone to sprain and strain
- Improper or lack of warming-up. It is important to warm up before and after exercises to prevent injury. Not doing this, or warming up incorrectly increases the chances for a tear.
- Fatigue. When you are tired, you are less likely to keep a good posture.
- Being out of shape. When you are out of shape and don’t exercise your muscles, ligaments grow weak.
Who Gets Shoulder Impingement?
Shoulder Impingement usually common with those engaged in sports and other activities that require overhead and forceful movements of their shoulders and arms.
Sports include:
- Swimming
- Baseball
- Volleyball
- Tennis
- Basketball
Other activities would include:
- Window washing
- Painting
- Construction work
- Moving boxes
- Weight lifting