Shoulder Impingement
Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles become compressed during shoulder movements, often leading to pain and decreased range of motion. This condition can result from repetitive overhead activities, poor posture, or degenerative changes.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Dull or sharp pain in the shoulder, particularly when lifting the arm overhead or reaching behind the back.
- Reduced strength in the shoulder, making it difficult to perform overhead activities or lift objects.
- Difficulty in raising the arm or performing certain movements due to pain and stiffness.
- A sensation of grinding or popping in the shoulder during movement.
- Night pain or discomfort that may disrupt sleep, particularly when lying on the affected side.
- Physiotherapy Managements:
- Manual Therapy : Techniques such as joint mobilization, cross friction massage, and soft tissue mobilization to improve shoulder mobility, break any adhesions, and reduce muscle tension.
- Pain Management : Use of modalities such as ice, heat, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Kinesiology tape to help reduce stress placed on the shoulder or to help facilitate movement
- Exercise Therapy:
- Stretching Exercises: Focused on improving flexibility in the shoulder and surrounding muscles, particularly the pectorals and shoulder rotators.
- Strengthening Exercises: Targeting the rotator cuff muscles and scapular stabilizers to improve shoulder stability and function. This often starts with isometric exercises and progresses to dynamic movements.
- Postural Exercises: Training to enhance posture and alignment, which can reduce shoulder impingement.
- Functional Training : Gradual reintroduction to overhead activities and sports, ensuring proper technique and movement patterns are used.
- Education : Informing patients about the condition, its causes, and the importance of proper body mechanics and activity modification.
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