You may have heard before but are wondering just what is impingement syndrome? The term impingement syndrome commonly refers to a type of shoulder pain. This pain specifically occurs when reaching overhead.

Typically, there is a very specific range of motion where the pain will occur. This range is most often from shoulder level to about ½ way to a maximum reach overhead. The final portion of motion will often be pain-free. Then as a person lowers their arm they will once again experience pain in that same arc of motion. This is often called a painful arc.

The next question is why? Or how can the problem be resolved?

As for the why…the pain is the result of compression of the muscle/tendon complex (most often the rotator cuff) as a person reaches. Normally as a person reaches the precise movement of the shoulder prevents the compression from happening. But at times (and for various reasons), the fluid motion becomes not so smooth and then compression occurs. And from this results the impingement or pain.

The good news is that this condition generally responds well to treatment. Often people think just strengthening the rotator cuff will do the trick. And while it may, there are typically a few factors that need to be addressed. Generally, it is also necessary to address mobility/range of the upper back (thoracic spine) as well as the shoulder blade.

So, what really needs to be done to solve impingement syndrome? The best and fastest way to an answer is to be evaluated by a muscle and joint specialist. This expert will determine the most likely cause(s) an develop a plan to solve them.

Tired of living with shoulder pain every time you reach? If so, then it is time to do something about it. Click the following LINK to speak with an expert who can guide you to the next best step.