Subacromial pain syndrome - Pain overhead
Subacromial pain syndrome, also known as shoulder impingement syndrome, is a common condition that causes pain and discomfort in the shoulder. It occurs when the structures in the subacromial space, including the tendons of the rotator cuff, become irritated or compressed.
What causes Subacromial Pain Syndrome?
Subacromial pain syndrome can develop due to various factors, including:
Impingement: The subacromial space, located between the acromion (part of the shoulder blade) and the rotator cuff tendons, can become narrowed, leading to compression and irritation of the tendons.
Poor shoulder mechanics: Improper movement patterns, such as rounded shoulders or excessive internal rotation of the shoulder, can contribute to abnormal mechanics and increase the risk of subacromial pain syndrome.
Repetitive activities: Activities that involve repetitive overhead motions, such as throwing, swimming, or lifting, can place repetitive stress on the shoulder and lead to inflammation and irritation of the tendons or can result in muscle and mobility imbalances.
Muscle imbalances: Weakness or imbalances in the muscles surrounding the shoulder, including the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers, can affect shoulder mechanics and contribute to subacromial pain syndrome.
What are the symptoms of Subacromial Pain Syndrome?
The primary symptom of subacromial pain syndrome is pain in the shoulder region. Other common symptoms include:
Pain with overhead activities: Pain or discomfort that worsens when raising the arm overhead or performing activities that require reaching or lifting.
Weakness and loss of strength: Difficulty in performing certain movements or activities due to weakness in the affected shoulder.
Limited range of motion: Decreased mobility and stiffness in the shoulder joint, particularly with abduction (lifting the arm to the side) and external rotation.
Pain at rest or during sleep: Discomfort that may persist even when the shoulder is at rest or while lying on the affected side.
Shoulder instability: Some individuals may experience a feeling of instability or a sensation of the shoulder "catching" or "grating."
What are management Strategies for Subacromial Pain Syndrome?
Rest and activity modification: Avoid or modify activities that exacerbate the symptoms. Resting the shoulder and gradually reintroducing pain-free movements can aid in healing.
Restore strength, range and mobility: Our physiotherapists can design a tailored exercise program to strengthen the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles, improve shoulder mechanics, and increase flexibility and mobility.
Manual therapy: Techniques such as joint mobilization, soft tissue massage, and stretching performed by our qualified Physiotherapists’ can help relieve pain, improve range of motion, and restore proper shoulder mechanics.
Pain management: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections may be recommended by a healthcare professional to reduce pain and inflammation.
Modalities: Heat therapy, ice packs, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) may provide temporary pain relief and aid in the healing process.
Gradual strengthening program: Once pain and inflammation have subsided, gradually reintroduce strengthening exercises for the shoulder, focusing on proper form and technique.
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