Causes of Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder impingement is a painful condition that results from the pinching of tissue between two bones in the shoulder joint. This affliction is common to athletes, especially pitchers, due to stresses from the motion of throwing.

Anatomy

• Shoulder impingement occurs when a structure becomes irritated from being pinched between the head of the humerus, (the large upper arm bone) and the acromion (the part of the scapula that comes off to form the socket for the arm joint). Most commonly it's a rotator cuff tendon that is pinched.

Normal Aging

• A person can have shoulder impingement for three reasons. Normal aging is one. Shoulders are like any other part of your body. After years of heavy use, it's not uncommon for the tendons to become irritated or develop scar tissue.

Overuse

• Frequently performing activities that involve extending the arms overhead can lead to shoulder impingement because when the arm is overhead the acromion and humerus will move closer together.

Genetics

• Due to genetics, some individuals have a larger "hook" on their acromion than others, making the pinching of tissue between the two bones more likely.

Treatment Methods

• Treatment of shoulder impingement, depending on the severity of the condition and the discretion of the physician, will include rest, ice/heat, anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy. Cortisone shots can be given to treat inflammation, although this does not fix the impingement. Surgery is not required most of the time, but in extreme cases can be recommended by a medical professional.