Schedule An Appointment With Us
Are Your Symptoms Affecting Your Quality Of Life?
Consult our MOH-accredited orthopaedic surgeon for an accurate diagnosis & personalised treatment plan.
MBBS
MRCSEd
MMED (Ortho)
FRCSEd
Shoulder impingement is a condition that occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles become compressed or ‘impinged’ during shoulder movements. This compression usually happens between the bones of the shoulder – the head of the upper arm bone (humerus) and a part of the shoulder blade (acromion).
The development of shoulder impingement is linked to a combination of factors rather than a single cause.
Recognising the symptoms of shoulder impingement allows for early diagnosis and treatment.
Non-surgical treatments aim to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and improve shoulder function.
Physical Therapy |
A tailored physical therapy program that focuses on exercises strengthening the rotator cuff muscles can improve flexibility and enhance the stability of the shoulder joint. |
Rest and Activity Modification |
Avoid activities that exacerbate the symptoms. Modifying certain tasks can also help reduce stress on the shoulder. |
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) |
Medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help in reducing pain and inflammation. |
Corticosteroid Injections |
These are injected into the subacromial space. They can provide pain relief and reduce inflammation, though the number of injections is usually limited due to potential side effects. |
Application of Heat and Cold |
Alternating between heat and cold packs can help in managing pain and swelling. |
Assistive Devices |
For some patients, using slings or other assistive devices temporarily can provide relief during the healing process. |
Surgical intervention may be considered in cases where non-surgical treatments have not provided sufficient relief, or when there is damage to the rotator cuff tendons or bursa.
This is the most common surgery for shoulder impingement. It involves removing a part of the acromion and any inflamed bursa to create more space for the rotator cuff tendons, relieving the impingement.
If there is a tear in the rotator cuff tendons, surgery may be required to repair it. This procedure can be done arthroscopically or through an open surgery, depending on the extent of the tear.
Sometimes, it may be necessary to surgically remove the inflamed bursa to reduce pain and improve shoulder function.
This minimally invasive surgery uses small incisions and a camera (arthroscope) to diagnose and treat issues within the joint.
Schedule An Appointment With Us
Consult our MOH-accredited orthopaedic surgeon for an accurate diagnosis & personalised treatment plan.
Preventing shoulder impingement involves measures to reduce the risk of developing the condition or preventing its recurrence.
MBBS
MRCSEd
MMED (Ortho)
FRCSEd
With over 18 years of experience, Dr Poh Seng Yew is an orthopaedic surgeon specialising in hip, knee, shoulder and elbow surgery, sports medicine, and trauma surgery.
Weekdays: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Saturdays: 9.00am – 1.00pm
Sundays and Public Holidays: Closed
Please leave us a message, and we will be in touch with you shortly.
Shoulder impingement is commonly caused by repetitive overhead activities, anatomical variations, muscle weakness, and age-related changes that lead to the narrowing of the space where the rotator cuff tendons are located.
While mild cases may improve with rest and non-surgical treatments, chronic or severe shoulder impingement typically requires a structured treatment plan for effective healing.
The recovery time can vary widely depending on the severity of the condition and the chosen treatment method. Non-surgical treatments may offer relief within weeks to months, while recovery from surgery may take several months.
Yes, physical therapy is a key component of treating shoulder impingement. It focuses on strengthening the shoulder muscles, improving flexibility, and restoring normal shoulder mechanics.
Certain exercises, especially those involving overhead movements, can exacerbate shoulder impingement. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise regimen.
Prevention strategies include using proper techniques in sports and activities, engaging in regular strengthening and stretching exercises, making ergonomic adjustments, and maintaining good posture.