Impingement syndrome is a condition where the rotator cuff muscles and tendons in your shoulder are rubbed or pinched against the acromion, which is the top outer portion of the shoulder blade (scapula). The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that help raise and rotate your arm. It sits in the space between the top of the upper arm (humerus) and the acromion. Repetitive overhead and/or rotational movements of the arm along with trauma from a fall onto the shoulder are common causes of impingement syndrome. Chronic irritation or acute injuries can also result in a partial or complete tear of one or more of the rotator cuff muscles or tendons.
Symptoms:
- Shoulder or upper arm pain with touching or laying on it
- Pain with raising or rotating the arm
- Pain with reaching or bringing the arm down
- Shoulder stiffness
- Weakness due to pain or from a tear
Treatment:
- Ice
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Steroid injections
- Physical therapy
- Laser therapy
- Acupuncture