IMPINGEMENT SYNDROME
Common causes of shoulder pain
WHAT IS AN IMPINGEMENT?
Impingement syndrome is one of the most common disorders of the shoulder. It is caused by a jamming of the rotator cuff (tendon cap) between the acromion and the humeral head when the arm is raised.
HOW DOES AN IMPINGEMENT DEVELOP?
There are two forms of impingement syndrome. Outlet impingement and non-outlet impingement. In the more common non-outlet impingement, the head of the humerus rises due to a functional decentration. This pinches the tendon cap below the acromion. The cause of this functional disorder can be weakness, overuse or muscular imbalances. In outlet impingement, entrapment occurs because of changes in bone structure. These can be a steeply sloping acromion or a bone spur.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
Patients experience pain when lifting the arm above chest level, which usually decreases at the highest point. Patients often report additional pain at night and at rest.
WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS?
The treatment of impingement syndrome is usually successful without surgery. Infiltration with anti-inflammatory medication often brings quick relief. Functional disorders in particular can be remedied well with physiotherapeutic treatments. In an operation, which is performed arthroscopically, the acromion is ground off, creating more space for the rotator cuff again.
If you have any questions about the treatment of impingement syndrome, I am happy to advise you in my practice.
