Shoulder Impingement | Baylor Scott & White Health

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.

patient able to play and lift his daughter after receiving treatment for shoulder impingement

Anatomy of the shoulder

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that connect your shoulder blade to your upper arm bone (humerus). These muscles help you lift, rotate and move your arm while also keeping your shoulder stable.

Shoulder impingement happens when the rotator cuff gets pinched between the top of your arm bone and the bony part of your shoulder blade (called the acromion). This pinching can cause pain, inflammation and limited movement, especially when you reach overhead or behind your back.

Types of shoulder impingement

There are a few components of shoulder impingement that can cause symptoms to develop. Your healthcare provider might say that you have a more specific issue, including:

Rotator cuff tendonitis

Rotator cuff tendonitis happens when a tendon in your shoulder that supports your rotator cuff becomes swollen, deteriorated or irritated.

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.

woman swimming free of pain after shoulder impingement treatment

How is shoulder impingement diagnosed?

Most of the time, a doctor can diagnose shoulder impingement with a physical exam. During the exam, your doctor will ask about your symptoms, including when the discomfort started, if it has become worse over time, and if your job or hobbies require repetitive motion. They’ll also check for other shoulder and joint problems, including a rotator cuff injury, pinched nerve or arthritis. Sometimes, imaging tests are needed to rule out other possible causes of your discomfort.

Shoulder impingement treatment

There are several treatment options for shoulder impingement, but the most common include rest and avoiding the activities or arm positions causing your pain. Other treatments can include over-the-counter pain relievers and applying ice or heat to the area to reduce discomfort and swelling, and physical therapy to strengthen your shoulder and improve its range of motion. You may need surgery if conservative treatments aren’t effective.

Lifestyle changes and home remedies

To help with shoulder impingement, it's important to rest your shoulder and avoid activities that may have caused the discomfort, like swimming. Your healthcare provider will let you know how long to take a break.

Applying ice to your shoulder can help reduce pain and swelling. Wrap the ice pack in a towel to protect your skin and follow your provider's advice on how often and for how long to use it.

You may also need to adjust how you move or perform certain tasks. If you're an athlete, changing your posture or technique during training or competition can help prevent further strain on your shoulder.

Find shoulder care near you

We offer several locations for your care, including specialty orthopedic centers in North and Central Texas.

Baylor Scott & White - The Brenham Clinic

600 N Park St , Brenham, TX, 77833

Baylor Scott & White - The Brenham Clinic

600 N Park St , Brenham, TX, 77833

What is shoulder impingement?

Anatomy of the shoulder

Types of shoulder impingement

Rotator cuff tendonitis

Shoulder impingement symptoms

When to see a doctor

Shoulder impingement causes and risk factors

How is shoulder impingement diagnosed?

Medical history and exam

Imaging tests

Shoulder impingement treatment

Lifestyle changes and home remedies

Find shoulder care near you

Frequently asked questions

What does an impinged shoulder feel like?

Does shoulder impingement go away?

How long does shoulder impingement last?

Can shoulder impingement cause neck pain?

Is frozen shoulder the same as shoulder impingement?

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