In my last blog, I discussed
rotator cuff injuries, which develop as a result of chronic tears of the four
rotator cuff muscles, which is caused by repetitive microtrauma to these muscles
as a result of overuse.
Impingement syndrome of the shoulder occurs when the
supraspinatus muscle or tendon becomes impinged, or trapped, under the acromion
process during overhead movements. The condition can also be referred to as
“painful arc” syndrome or “swimmer’s shoulder”.
Symptoms
Depending on the severity of the impingement syndrome, the
following symptoms may be present:
·
Pain and weakness in and around the shoulder
joint
·
Limited range of movement in the shoulder joint
·
Clicking in the shoulder during movement
·
Increased pain when the arm is lifted up to the
side between 70 and 120 degrees (called the “painful arc”)
Risk Factors
The following factors may increase the risk of developing
impingement syndrome:
·
Excessive overhead movements (for example,
swimming and cricket bowling)
·
Anatomical limits that result in limited
flexibility of the ligaments around the shoulder
·
Anatomical shape of the acromion process
·
Increased thickness of the supraspinatus and
biceps brachii tendon
·
Lack of flexibility and strength of both the
supraspinatus and biceps brachii muscles
·
Weakness or tightness of teres minor and
infraspinatus
·
Hypermobility of the shoulder joint
·
Imbalances in the strength, coordination and
endurance of muscles supporting the shoulder joint and scapulae
·
Training devices, such as hand paddles in
swimming
Management
·
Rest, ice and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs
·
Physiotherapy to reduce inflammation and
increase range of movement
·
Modify activity to movements that do not cause
pain
·
Biokinetic therapy to correct imbalances in
muscle strength and coordination and to assist in returning to normal activity,
including sport activities
References
Foundations of Athletic Training: Prevention, Assessment and
Management
