SHOULDER IMPINGEMENT
Shoulder Impingement is a very general term used to describe pinching or trapping of the main tendons of the rotator cuff and/or the bursa (a fluid filled sac in the shoulder joint) between the 2 main bones of the shoulder. Given the number of structures involved in the strength and stability of the shoulder, it is very important to determine precisely which structures are responsible for the source of a person’s pain and symptoms. It is important for the potential contributing factors to be assessed by a physiotherapist if you are experiencing any shoulder pain to ensure that treatment is specific and appropriate.
The shoulder complex consists of 4 main muscles that form the Rotator cuff of the shoulder, providing a muscular sling for the Humerus (upper arm bone) and Scapula (shoulder blade). Their role includes controlling movement of the Humerus and the scapula, and preventing the Humerus from jamming upwards.
If some or all of these muscles are not working to their full potential, they can cause greater stress on accompanying structures and potentially cause the Humerus to push up into the Scapula. Any structures that occupy this space run the risk of becoming pinched.
Factors that can contribute to Shoulder Impingement or Rotator Cuff dysfunction can include:
Poor posture
Muscle tightness
Muscle weakness/Imbalance
Stiffness/Issues of the neck and thoracic spine
Hyper-mobility of the shoulder joint
Age
History of manual occupation involving the shoulders
Repetitive single arm sports such as tennis and swimming which can lead to fatigue of the rotator cuff
Poor technique with repetitive sports I.e. Only breathing to one side during swimming
Physiotherapy treatment may consist of:
