What is shoulder impingement?
Shoulder impingement syndrome is a common cause of shoulder pain. It happens when the tendons and soft tissues in your shoulder get irritated or pinched, especially with frequent overhead movements like swimming, tennis, volleyball or even lifting objects.
Repetitive motions can cause these tissues to rub against nearby bones, leading to discomfort and inflammation. It can also happen after a minor injury, like falling on your shoulder or reaching out to catch yourself. Sometimes, the exact cause isn’t clear.
If shoulder impingement isn’t treated, the pain can get worse and make it hard to move your arm or do daily activities. Early treatment can help relieve discomfort, reduce inflammation and restore shoulder function.
Shoulder impingement symptoms
Shoulder pain is the most common symptom of shoulder impingement. It often feels like it’s coming from the front of your shoulder and can spread down the side of your arm. The discomfort may also:
- Make your shoulder feel tender to the touch
- Worsen at night, making it hard to fall or stay asleep
Certain movements or positions can make the pain worse, including:
- Reaching your arm overhead
- Lifting or lowering your arm
- Reaching behind your back (like grabbing a wallet or unzipping a purse)
- Lying on the affected shoulder
When to see a doctor
See your doctor whenever shoulder discomfort interferes with your day-to-day activities and doesn’t get better with over-the-counter medications. Many people with shoulder impingement don’t seek help in the early stages of the condition, but talking to a provider may allow you to treat your condition with less invasive treatments.
Shoulder impingement causes and risk factors
Shoulder impingement happens when the space at the top of your shoulder narrows, putting pressure on the tendons and soft tissues. Repeated movements, like raising your arm overhead, can cause irritation, small tears and swelling, making it harder for your shoulder to move smoothly.
Athletes in sports like swimming and tennis, as well as people who do overhead activities like construction or painting, are more likely to develop this condition. Shoulder impingement can also occur after an injury, such as a fall or car accident. It can cause pain, weakness and difficulty moving your shoulder, especially when reaching or lifting your arm.
