Introduction

Shoulder impingement, also known as impingement syndrome or swimmer’s shoulder, is a common cause of shoulder pain. It occurs when the rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that attach your upper arm bone to your shoulder, rubs against the top of your shoulder, creating pressure that irritates muscles and tendons.

Symptoms

The main symptom of shoulder impingement is sudden pain in your shoulder when you lift your arm overhead or backward. Other symptoms include minor but constant pain in your arm, pain that goes from the front of your shoulder to the side of your arm, pain that gets worse at night, and shoulder or arm weakness.

Causes

Many cases of shoulder impingement are caused by overuse. Repeated use of the shoulder can make the tendons in your shoulder swell, leading them to “catch” on your upper shoulder bone.

Risk factors

Playing sports that require using your shoulders for overhead or forceful motion is the biggest risk factor for developing shoulder impingement. Common activities that could cause this include swimming, tennis, and baseball. Both old age and previous shoulder injuries, such as a dislocation, are also risk factors for shoulder impingement.

Diagnosis

habits. movement. In some cases, you may also need an X-ray to rule out arthritis or check for bone changes, such as a spur, that could lead to impingement. If your doctor thinks that you have a more serious rotator cuff injury or they still can’t diagnose you, they might use an MRI scan to get a better look at your shoulder.

Treatment

Home care is very important when it comes to treating shoulder impingement. Rest, physical therapy, medication, or surgery can be used to treat shoulder impingement.

Conclusion

Shoulder impingement is a common cause of shoulder pain and weakness. It can be treated with rest, physical therapy, medication, or surgery. It’s important to seek medical advice if you experience persistent shoulder pain.