Shoulder impingement syndrome is a common cause of shoulder pain that can affect people of all ages. It occurs when the tendons in your shoulder become inflamed and irritated, leading to pain and limited range of motion. If you are experiencing shoulder pain, it’s important to determine whether or not you have shoulder impingement syndrome so that you can seek appropriate treatment. In this blog post, we will discuss how to recognize the symptoms of shoulder impingement syndrome and what steps you can take to alleviate your pain.
One of the most common symptoms of shoulder impingement syndrome is pain when raising your arm overhead or reaching behind your back. This pain is often described as a dull ache that worsens with activity. You may also experience weakness in your arm and difficulty performing everyday tasks like combing your hair or reaching for objects on high shelves. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to see a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.
A physiotherapist or chiropractor can help diagnose shoulder impingement syndrome through a physical examination and imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans. During the physical exam, they will assess your range of motion, strength, and any areas of tenderness in your shoulder. Imaging tests can provide more detailed information about the structures in your shoulder, helping to confirm a diagnosis of shoulder impingement syndrome.
Once diagnosed with shoulder impingement syndrome, treatment options may include physiotherapy exercises to strengthen the muscles around your shoulder joint and improve flexibility. Your physiotherapist or chiropractor may also recommend modifying activities that aggravate your symptoms and using ice or heat therapy to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. In some cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary to alleviate severe symptoms.
It’s important to follow the recommendations of your healthcare provider and continue with any prescribed exercises or treatments to manage your shoulder impingement syndrome effectively. By seeking early intervention and taking proactive steps to address your symptoms, you can prevent further damage to your shoulder joint and improve your quality of life. Remember that everyone’s experience with shoulder impingement syndrome is unique, so it’s essential to work closely with your healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs.
If you suspect that you have shoulder impingement syndrome, don’t ignore the signs – seek help from a physiotherapist or chiropractor for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. By recognizing the symptoms early on and taking proactive steps to address them, you can alleviate pain, improve function, and prevent further complications in the future. Don’t let shoulder impingement syndrome hold you back – take control of your health today!
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Sakshi Rupani, BPT, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapy practitioner at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
