Rotator cuff impingement

The rotator cuff is made up of four muscles — supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis — and their associated tendons. These muscles stabilize the shoulder joint and facilitate a wide range of shoulder movements by keeping the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) within the shallow socket of the shoulder blade (scapula). The tendons form a cuff around the shoulder joint, ensuring stability and allowing for smooth movement.

Rotator cuff impingement may develop due to various factors. If you are susceptible to any of the following, you may be at a higher risk of developing rotator cuff impingement:

• Repetitive Overhead Activities: Frequent overhead motions, such as those in swimming, tennis, or painting, may lead to impingement.
• Age: The condition is more common in individuals over 40, as tendons tend to degenerate and lose elasticity with age.
• Structural Abnormalities: Anatomical variations, such as a hooked acromion (a bony projection on the shoulder blade), may contribute to impingement.
• Previous Shoulder Injuries: Past injuries to the shoulder may increase the risk of developing impingement.
• Poor Posture: Slouching or poor posture may alter the alignment of the shoulder, increasing the risk of impingement.
• Muscle Imbalances: Weakness or imbalance in the shoulder muscles may affect joint mechanics, leading to impingement.

The symptoms of rotator cuff impingement may vary but often include:

• Pain is typically felt on the front or side of the shoulder and may worsen with overhead activities or lifting
• There may be weakness in the affected arm, making it difficult to lift objects or perform daily tasks
• Stiffness and reduced mobility in the shoulder joint
• Tenderness in the shoulder, particularly when pressing on the affected area

Early diagnosis and treatment of rotator cuff impingement are crucial. Your doctor will conduct a physical exam and review your medical history. They may also order imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to assess the condition of the tendons and rule out other potential causes of shoulder pain. In some cases, your doctor may recommend an arthrogram (an X-ray with contrast dye) to better visualize the soft tissues in the shoulder joint. Early intervention can prevent further damage and improve recovery time.

Many cases of rotator cuff impingement can be effectively managed with non-surgical treatments, including rest, ice, heat, physical therapy, and medications. These treatments have been proven to alleviate symptoms and promote healing, giving you hope for a full recovery.

• Rest: Avoid activities that exacerbate the symptoms and give the shoulder time to heal.
• Ice: Apply ice packs to the affected area to reduce pain and swelling.
• Heat: Use heat therapy to relax tight muscles and improve range of motion.
• Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a tailored exercise program to improve shoulder strength, flexibility, and posture.
• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs can help manage symptoms.