Tuesday Tune-Up – Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder Impingement: Why does it hurt when I reach overhead?

Shoulder impingement occurs when the rotator cuff tendons are compressed during arm movements, causing pain and restricted motion. Common causes include repetitive overhead activities, poor posture, and muscle imbalances, which are our specialty.
I've had it and.....it's hurts!

Symptoms

Persistent shoulder pain, especially when lifting, reaching overhead, or across your body
Weakness in the upper arm
Limited range of motion
Pain that worsens at night, especially when lying on the side of symptoms

Treatment Strategies:

Shoulder muscle stability training: Focuses on restoring motion, balancing the muscular load, and improving posture

Stretching Exercises: Gentle stretches to improve flexibility and reduce the tension on the rotator cuff muscle or tendon that is being “impinged”

Strengthening Exercises: Targets the shoulder blade stabilizers and the muscles of the rotator cuff to improve the strength and endurance of your shoulders

Activity Modification: Avoiding aggravating movements, like reaching overhead or across your body

Did You Know?

Early intervention with Physical Therapy can significantly reduce recovery time and prevent chronic issues. You are less likely to get a full rotator cuff tear if you address your shoulder pain before it gets worse. Impingement can lead to a tear, so don’t wait until it’s too late - come in for a visit to avoid having shoulder surgery.

Stay Active, Stay Healthy!

Let us know if you have shoulder pain.

Tim, Danielle, and April are experts at providing the specific things you need to get relief. Everyone’s body is a little different, so an individually tailored home program is a necessity when it comes to properly treating shoulder pain.

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