Significant Shoulder Pain develops when muscular tendons or bursa are “pinched” as they pass through the space formed between joints of the clavicle and scapular.
Causes:
Repetitive movements causing strains, irregular shaped clavicles, arthritic shoulder joints; poor upper torso posture; “winged scapula”; and following shoulder dislocation.
Signs & Symptoms:
Swelling and damage to the tendons occurs initially causing central shoulder pain, loss of certain shoulder elevation and rotational movements, loss of upper limb strength.
Treatment:
Initially treatment consists of identification of aggravating activities to ensure minimization of same; whilst addressing local inflammation with ice and anti-inflammatory medication. Physiotherapy includes local massage therapy, correction of upper torso posture reduce soft tissue tightness and ergonomic training.
Prognosis:
Shoulder Impingement has good prognosis when diagnosed early, with progressive improvement possible within 4 to 6 weeks. Longer time frames are more likely associated with arthritis, or continued postures or movements promoting tissue irritation.