Shoulder Impingement Syndrome Treated in Arlington, VA
Shoulder impingement syndrome is a relatively common condition that often develops in active adults who have rotator cuff tendonitis or shoulder bursitis. The rotator cuff is made up of a group of muscles and tendons sandwiched in between the upper arm bone (humerus) and the tip of the shoulder blade (acromion). Because the rotator cuff is essentially surrounded by bony tissue, there is limited space available to accommodate swelling. As a result, an inflamed shoulder tendon can become impinged and compressed, leading to a reduction in blood flow that can cause the pressured tendon tissue to begin to fray.
If you have shoulder pain, you can feel confident entrusting your care to Nirschl Orthopaedic Center in Arlington, Virginia. Our outstanding team of shoulder specialists includes Dr. Farshad Adib, Dr. Derek H. Ochiai, Dr. Ronald S. Paik and Dr. Clay Wellborn.
What Are the Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome?
Physical activities that involve repetitive overhead arm movements—such as golf, tennis, baseball, swimming and weightlifting—can increase the risk of shoulder impingement syndrome. In addition to localized pain, tenderness and stiffness, the condition may cause:
- Pain that worsens with certain arm movements, such as reaching overhead or toward the back
- Pain that travels from the tip of the shoulder to the elbow
- Pain that disrupts sleep
- Reduced range of motion in the shoulder
- Weakness in the shoulder muscles
If left untreated, shoulder impingement syndrome can potentially progress to a full rotator cuff tear. Therefore, it is important to seek prompt medical attention for these symptoms.
How Can Shoulder Impingement Syndrome Be Treated?
Shoulder tendon pain often responds well to non-surgical treatment, which may include basic home remedies such as a brief period of rest, ice pack applications and an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). If further pain relief is needed, we may prescribe a stronger anti-inflammatory medication or a cortisone injection. Additionally, we can suggest an appropriate home rehabilitation program to facilitate a gradual return to activity. Any movements that cause or contribute to the pain, such as reaching overhead, should be temporarily avoided during the healing process, then gradually resumed as comfort allows. We may suggest a surgical repair to address a more severe injury, such as a rotator cuff tear.
The shoulder specialists at Nirschl Orthopaedic Center offer both conservative and surgical treatment options for shoulder impingement syndrome. At our office in Arlington, VA, you can consult with an orthopedic expert who can help you determine the best approach for treating your shoulder pain. To schedule an appointment with one of our shoulder specialists, contact us at (703) 525-2200 today.