Shoulder impingement syndrome

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Shoulder impingement syndrome
Synonyms	Subacromial impingement, painful arc syndrome, supraspinatus syndrome, swimmer's shoulder, thrower's shoulder
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	Orthopedics
Symptoms	Shoulder pain, weakness, reduced range of motion
Complications	N/A
Onset	Gradual
Duration	Varies
Types	N/A
Causes	Repetitive overhead activity, shoulder instability, muscle imbalance
Risks	Athletic activities, occupational hazards
Diagnosis	Physical examination, imaging studies
Differential diagnosis	Rotator cuff tear, adhesive capsulitis, bursitis
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Physical therapy, NSAIDs, corticosteroid injections, surgery
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Generally good with treatment
Frequency	Common in athletes and manual laborers
Deaths	N/A

Flat acromion

Curved acromion

Hooked acromion

MRI of Subacromial impingement

Shoulder Impingement Syndrome is a common condition affecting the shoulder joint. It is also known as Subacromial Impingement, Swimmer's Shoulder, Thrower's Shoulder, and Painful Arc Syndrome.

Causes

Shoulder Impingement Syndrome is caused by the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles becoming impinged as they pass through a narrow bony space in the shoulder called the subacromial space. This can cause pain, weakness and loss of movement at the shoulder.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome include:

• Pain in the shoulder and arm, which may be worse when lifting the arm, lying on it or during activities that require reaching overhead.
• Weakness of the shoulder muscles.
• Stiffness in the shoulder.
• Difficulty lifting objects, especially overhead.
• Pain at night, which can affect sleep.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome is usually made based on the symptoms and a physical examination. However, further tests such as an X-ray, MRI or Ultrasound may be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Treatment for Shoulder Impingement Syndrome usually involves a combination of rest, physiotherapy, pain relief and sometimes surgery. The aim of treatment is to reduce pain and inflammation, and to restore normal function to the shoulder.

Prevention

Prevention of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome can often be achieved through regular exercise to strengthen the shoulder muscles, good posture, and avoiding activities that cause pain.

See Also

• Rotator Cuff
• Subacromial Bursitis
• Frozen Shoulder
• Shoulder Arthritis