Diagnosis and Treatment of Shoulder Impingement in Wake County
What is Shoulder Impingement?
Shoulder impingement occurs when the rotator cuff tendons get pinched or compressed during shoulder movements, leading to painful friction against nearby bones or tissue. This compression causes pain and limited range of motion, affecting athletes who strive to give their all to their sport. Shoulder impingement is usually manageable with proper diagnosis and intervention, but if left untreated, this injury can become progressively worse. At Raleigh Orthopaedic, our sports medicine specialists in Wake County regularly work with athletes facing shoulder pain and impingement. When you come to see us, we will take the time needed to understand your injury and your recovery goals, helping you get back on the field quickly and safely.
What Causes Shoulder Impingement?
Impingement of the shoulder can occur whenever the shoulder is frequently raised or in motion, particularly during repetitive overhead activities. Athletes who participate in sports like swimming, tennis, baseball, and football are particularly vulnerable to shoulder impingement due to the extensive shoulder movement and strain these activities demand. Additionally, factors like poor posture, muscle imbalances, and previous shoulder injuries can increase the risk of developing this condition.
Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement
The symptoms of shoulder impingement are often very noticeable and can interfere with sports and other activities. They include:
- Weakness in the shoulder or arm
- Stiffness in the shoulder
- Swelling or tenderness at the shoulder joint
- Pain during overhead movements
- Nighttime pain
- Catching or grating sensation during movement
How is Shoulder Impingement Diagnosed?
When you visit a Raleigh Orthopaedic specialist for a suspected shoulder injury, we’ll start with a comprehensive physical evaluation of your shoulder. This includes strength and range of motion tests, and if needed, imaging such as X-rays or an MRI to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential injuries. Your doctor will ask you several questions about your injury, such as when it occurred and what makes the pain better or worse. This will aid in the diagnostic process and allow your doctor to get to know you and understand your goals for treatment.
Treatment Options for Shoulder Impingement at Raleigh Orthopaedic
The exact details of your shoulder impingement treatment plan at Raleigh Orthopaedic will depend on the specifics of your injury. Surgery is not usually needed but may be recommended in some cases.
Most patients with shoulder impingement are able to recover without the need for surgery. Treatment usually begins with rest and avoiding any activities or movements that aggravate the shoulder. You will likely work with one of our physical therapists as a cornerstone of your recovery. They will teach you how to perform targeted exercises to improve shoulder strength, flexibility, and overall function. The use of anti-inflammatory medications may also be recommended to reduce pain and swelling. A cortisone injection is another conservative option for pain relief.
If your shoulder pain does not subside with non-surgical methods, surgery may be necessary. The most common surgical procedure is arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure that is often used to treat shoulder impingement. During this type of procedure, a camera and instruments are inserted into the shoulder joint through small incisions. In some cases, an acromioplasty is performed during arthroscopy, where part of the bone is shaved down to create more space for the rotator cuff, reducing the impingement and allowing for smoother movement. This approach minimizes disruption to surrounding tissues, promoting faster recovery.
How Long Does it Take to Recover from Shoulder Impingement?
Recovery time for shoulder impingement depends on the severity of the injury and the treatment path recommended by your doctor. With appropriate care, many patients and athletes can return to their normal activities within a few weeks to months. Although it may be frustrating, taking the proper time to recover is crucial and helps to prevent future injury.
Can Shoulder Impingement Be Prevented?
Preventing shoulder impingement starts with proper warm-up routines, strength training, and flexibility exercises. It’s also essential to maintain good posture and avoid repetitive overhead movements if your shoulder muscles aren’t strong enough to support them. Building shoulder stability and keeping your range of motion in check can significantly reduce the risk of injury as well.
Sports Medicine Specialists at Raleigh Orthopaedic
At Raleigh Orthopaedic, our team is dedicated to providing personalized treatment plans for athletes facing shoulder impingement and other orthopedic injuries. Our sports medicine specialists will take the time to understand your situation, helping discover the root cause of your injury and the best course of action to alleviate pain and prevent future complications.
Comprehensive Sports Medicine Care in NC at Raleigh Orthopaedic
Raleigh Orthopaedic is proud to be Wake County’s leading orthopedic practice. With a dedicated team of sports medicine specialists who are experts in diagnosing and treating a wide range of injuries, we are committed to helping patients return to their active lifestyles. Whether you’re an athlete or simply dealing with everyday shoulder pain, Raleigh Orthopaedic provides personalized care and advanced treatments to ensure a full and lasting recovery. Schedule an appointment online or call your nearest Raleigh Orthopaedic location to get started. Let Raleigh Orthopaedic help you get back to doing what you love by providing you with top-quality shoulder care in Wake County today!