Shoulder Impingement
A condition where the rotator cuff tendons are pinched against the shoulder blade during arm movement, causing pain, especially when reaching overhead.
About this condition
Impingement occurs when the space between the top of the arm bone and the shoulder blade narrows, pinching the rotator cuff tendons as the arm lifts. This repeated compression irritates the tendons and the fluid-filled sac that cushions them, producing pain that is worst with overhead reaching and reaching behind the back.
Dr. Sonntag focuses first on calming the irritation and correcting the underlying mechanics through physical therapy, activity changes, and injections when needed. Most patients improve without surgery. If pain persists despite consistent conservative treatment, he considers an arthroscopic procedure to create more room for the tendons.
Common symptoms
- Pain when reaching overhead
- Aching along the side of the arm
- Pain that disrupts sleep
- Weakness when lifting the arm
- Discomfort reaching behind the back
- A pinching sensation with movement
Common causes
- Repetitive overhead activity
- Bone spurs narrowing the joint space
- Poor posture and shoulder mechanics
- Rotator cuff weakness or imbalance
- Thickening of the tendon or bursa
How Dr. Sonntag treats this
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Learn moreCare with Dr. Jeffrey R. Sonntag
Dr. Jeffrey R. Sonntag, DO is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training in shoulder and elbow surgery, practicing at OSMC in Granger, IN, Elkhart, IN, Middlebury, IN.
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