Shoulder pain is a common problem and there are many things that can cause it. Pain often occurs when rotator cuff tendons become trapped under the bony area in the shoulder, sometimes called an impingement. The shoulder tendons pass through the subacromial space and can become impinged during repetitive overhead activities, leading to inflammation and pain. The tendons can also become inflamed or damaged, and this condition is called a rotator cuff tendinopathy or bursitis, resulting in painful shoulder movements. The rotator cuff muscles are particularly susceptible to overuse and injury in shoulder impingement. The muscles around the shoulder, including the shoulder muscles and rotator cuff muscles, play a crucial role in stabilising the joint and preventing impingement.
Athletes who make repetitive overhead movements, including swimmers, tennis players, throwers, and weightlifters, are at a high risk of developing these conditions. Repetitive movements and overuse injuries are common causes of shoulder impingement, especially in sports involving the upper arm bone and shoulder blade. Improper or limited shoulder movement can contribute to inflammation and increase the likelihood of shoulder impingement.
However, these injuries can also affect those who lead a more sedentary lifestyle. Poor posture and muscle imbalance can also contribute to shoulder pain and increase the risk of rotator cuff injury.
– Pain deep in the shoulder joint
– Reduced movement and discomfort when moving your shoulder
– Pins and needles feeling
– Lack of movement, difficulty moving or a feeling of ‘looseness’ in the joint
Once the injury is suspected it is important to confirm the exact nature of the injury, as treatment can vary depending on the specific structure. The Physiotherapist will be able to distinguish between structures and guide you through the rehab process. It is also advisable to consult a physical therapist for personalised guidance on shoulder exercises and massage techniques to ensure proper technique and prevent aggravation.
Researchers have concluded that there are essentially 7 stages of therapy that need to be covered to effectively rehabilitate these injuries and prevent recurrence. A comprehensive treatment plan or treatment regimen often includes physical therapy, massage therapy, and specific exercises to improve shoulder function and promote tissue healing.
– Early Injury: Protection, Pain Relief & Anti-inflammatory Treatment
– Regain Full Shoulder Range of Motion
– Restore Scapular Control and Scapulohumeral Rhythm
– Regain Normal Neck-Scapulo-Thoracic-Shoulder Function
– Restore Rotator Cuff Strength
– Rehabilitate High Speed, Power, Proprioception and Agility Exercises
– Return to Sport and/or Work
Alongside the above 7 stages, it is very important to have your soft-tissue worked on throughout. During any shoulder injury you will develop imbalances and tightness in surrounding muscles. Physiotherapy and Sports Massage would be ideal to combat this.
Shoulder pain can typically be diagnosed by a Physiotherapist through a series of questioning and physical tests.
However, in some cases an ultrasound scan, x-ray or MRI scan can also be useful to diagnose an impingement and to detect any associated injuries, such as Shoulder Bursitis, Rotator-cuff tears, or Shoulder Tendinopathy. A rotator cuff tear can vary in severity and may require different treatment options, ranging from conservative therapy and massage to surgical intervention. Imaging can help confirm a diagnosis of shoulder impingement syndrome or impingement syndrome and rule out other causes. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation and pain. For severe or persistent cases of shoulder impingement syndrome, subacromial decompression may be considered as a surgical option to relieve pressure on the rotator cuff.
– Pain is experienced when the arm is used for overhead activities and is lifted above the horizontal plane
– Shoulder pain that can extend from the top of the shoulder to the elbow
– Pain when lying on the affected shoulder
– Shoulder pain at rest as your condition deteriorates
– Muscle weakness or pain when attempting to reach or lift
– Pain when putting your hand behind your back or head
– Pain reaching for the seat-belt
Your shoulder shouldn’t feel stiff. If it is, you may have frozen shoulder.
At Comfort Health we offer a range of treatments from Sports Massage, Physiotherapy and Acupuncture, along with a variety of other services which all can help with rotator cuff impingement.
If you feel like you could benefit from a treatment from one of our practitioners – Click Here and book in today.