Subacromial Impingement Syndrome

Subacromial impingement syndrome is a common medical condition that affects the shoulder joint, causing pain and limited mobility. It occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles become inflamed or irritated as they pass through the subacromial space, which is the narrow area between the acromion (a bony projection on the shoulder blade) and the humeral head (the top of the upper arm bone).

Causes and Risk Factors

The causes of subacromial impingement syndrome can be attributed to a combination of factors, including:

• Anatomical abnormalities, such as a curved or hooked acromion
• Weakened or torn rotator cuff muscles
• Poor posture or shoulder mechanics
• Repetitive overhead activities or sports
• Aging and wear and tear on the joint

Symptoms

The symptoms of subacromial impingement syndrome may include:

• Pain or tenderness in the shoulder, especially when lifting the arm or rotating it inward
• Weakness or fatigue in the shoulder muscles
• Limited range of motion or stiffness in the shoulder joint
• Pain at night, especially when sleeping on the affected side

Diagnosis

Diagnosing subacromial impingement syndrome typically involves a combination of:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Imaging tests, such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Specialized tests, such as the Neer test or Hawkins-Kennedy test

Treatment Options

Treatment for subacromial impingement syndrome usually involves a conservative approach, including:

• Physical therapy to improve shoulder strength and flexibility
• Pain management with medication or injections
• Modifying activities to avoid exacerbating the condition
• Surgery, in severe cases where conservative treatment is not effective

Prevention

To prevent subacromial impingement syndrome, it is recommended to:

• Maintain good posture and shoulder mechanics
• Strengthen the rotator cuff muscles through exercise
• Avoid repetitive overhead activities or take regular breaks
• Warm up and stretch before engaging in sports or physical activity