Shoulder Impingement
Shoulder Impingement Treatment in BC
What is it?
Shoulder impingement syndrome is a condition where the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles become irritated and inflamed as they pass through the subacromial space, which is the space beneath the acromion, a bony prominence on the scapula (shoulder blade). This can occur due to repetitive overhead activities, such as throwing or reaching, or as a result of structural abnormalities in the shoulder joint. The impingement causes pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder, particularly when the arm is raised overhead or moved away from the body. Treatment typically involves manual therapy (Physiotherapy, Chiropractic Care) to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder, rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and in some cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery to relieve pressure on the affected tendons.
Benefits of treatment:
Manual therapy (Physiotherapy, Chiropractic Care), which includes techniques like massage, mobilization, and manipulation, can offer several benefits for shoulder impingement syndrome:
- Pain Reduction: Manual therapy can help alleviate pain associated with shoulder impingement by reducing muscle tension, improving joint mobility, and decreasing inflammation.
- Improved Range of Motion: By targeting stiff or restricted areas in the shoulder joint and surrounding tissues, manual therapy techniques can enhance joint mobility and flexibility, allowing for a greater range of motion.
- Muscle Relaxation: Manual therapy can help relax tight muscles and release trigger points, which may contribute to shoulder impingement symptoms. This can improve overall muscle function and reduce strain on the affected tendons.
- Enhanced Tissue Healing: Certain manual therapy techniques, such as soft tissue mobilization and myofascial release, can promote blood flow to the injured tissues, which may facilitate healing and tissue repair.
- Correction of Movement Patterns: Manual therapy combined with therapeutic exercises can help correct faulty movement patterns and biomechanical imbalances that contribute to shoulder impingement. This can reduce the risk of recurrent injuries.
- Patient Education: Our manual therapists often provide education on posture, ergonomics, and proper body mechanics to help patients understand how to prevent aggravating their shoulder impingement symptoms during daily activities or sports.
It’s important for manual therapy (Physiotherapy, Chiropractic Care) to be performed by a qualified and experienced practitioner who can tailor the treatment approach to the individual needs and condition of the patient. Additionally, manual therapy is often part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program for shoulder impingement, which may include other interventions such as strengthening exercises, stretching, and activity modification.