Understanding Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: Symptoms and Treatment with Physical Therapy
Shoulder impingement syndrome is a common condition affecting many individuals, particularly those engaged in activities involving overhead movements, racket sports or those with poor postural alignment. This blog post delves into what shoulder impingement syndrome is, its symptoms, and how physical therapy and dry needling can offer relief.
What is Shoulder Impingement Syndrome?
Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles become irritated and inflamed as they pass through a narrow space in the shoulder called the subacromial space. This space is located between the top of the shoulder blade (acromion) and the head of the humerus. Repetitive overhead movements, muscle imbalances or poor posture can lead to the narrowing of this space, causing the tendons to pinch against the acromion, resulting in pain and inflammation.
Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
The symptoms of shoulder impingement syndrome can vary but generally include:
Pain: Often described as a dull or aching pain in the front or top of the shoulder, which may worsen with overhead activities or movements. Typically when raising the arm overhead, patients will complain of a pinching sensation.
Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty reaching overhead or behind the back, and reduced shoulder flexibility.
Weakness: Decreased strength in the shoulder, making it challenging to perform daily activities or lift objects. Weakness is most profound with lifting objects out in front of the body or overhead.
Tenderness: Sensitivity in the anterior shoulder area, especially when touching or pressing around the shoulder joint.
Night Pain: Discomfort that may intensify at night, disrupting sleep. Often patients with shoulder impingement syndrome will have a hard time getting into a comfortable position and will often wake up in pain.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
Physical therapy is a highly effective treatment for managing and alleviating the symptoms of shoulder impingement syndrome. Here’s how:
Personalized Exercise Programs: Physical therapists design customized exercise programs to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles and improve shoulder stability. Strengthening these muscles helps to support and protect the shoulder joint, reducing the risk of impingement.
Postural Training: Poor posture can contribute to shoulder impingement. Physical therapists provide education and exercises to improve posture and alignment, reducing the strain on the shoulder joint.
Manual Therapy: Techniques such as joint mobilization and soft tissue massage can alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and enhance range of motion.
Education and Ergonomic Advice: Physical therapists educate patients on proper body mechanics and ergonomics to prevent aggravation of symptoms during daily activities.
The Role of Dry Needling in Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Dry needling is a technique used by physical therapists to treat muscle pain and dysfunction. It involves inserting fine monofilament needles into specific trigger points within muscles to release tightness and improve function. For shoulder impingement syndrome, dry needling can offer several benefits:
Reduction of Muscle Tension: Dry needling targets trigger points in the shoulder muscles, helping to release tightness and reduce pain. This can improve overall shoulder function and range of motion.
Improved Blood Flow: The technique enhances blood circulation to the affected area, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
Pain Relief: By addressing trigger points, dry needling can alleviate pain associated with shoulder impingement syndrome, allowing for more effective participation in physical therapy exercises.
Combining Physical Therapy and Dry Needling for Optimal Results
For many patients, a combination of physical therapy and dry needling provides a comprehensive approach to managing shoulder impingement syndrome. Physical therapy addresses the underlying causes of the condition, while dry needling targets specific areas of muscle tension and pain. Together, these treatments can significantly improve shoulder function and quality of life.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of shoulder impingement syndrome or seeking effective treatment options, consider consulting a physical therapist who specializes in shoulder rehabilitation. At Wildflower Physical Therapy & Wellness , our team of experts offers personalized physical therapy and dry needling services to help you achieve relief and restore optimal shoulder function.
If you are struggling with illness or injury and would like to get your body moving, schedule a physical therapy appointment with us today! At Wildflower Physical Therapy & Wellness, we can help you to get back to the life you want to live through pain management strategies, activity promotion and exercise. Our Cash Based Physical Therapy model allows us to deliver a highly individualized treatment plan without the fuss of insurance companies. Interested in trying dry needling to support your exercise routine and maximize recovery? Reach out to us today!