Guide To The Symptoms, Causes, And Complications Of Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder impingement commonly causes shoulder pain. In fact, it's one of the main causes of pain in the shoulders. The condition occurs when the bursa or tendons in an individual's shoulder suffer impingement due to the shoulder bones. There are multiple risk factors for shoulder impingement, and different movements and injuries can lead to the condition. There are also potential complications, including reduced quality of life and inflammation. An individual with shoulder impingement feels persistent pain that affects their ability to do everyday activities. Certain motions might make the pain worse, like reaching behind their back or reaching overhead as they put on a shirt or coat.

Get the full details regarding the symptoms, major causes, and complications linked to shoulder impingement now.

Pain With Overhead Use Of Arm

One of the main symptoms of shoulder impingement is pain with overhead use of the affected arm. There's also often pain when the patient reaches behind themselves and tries to move their arm upward. Affected individuals may have trouble pulling on a shirt or a coat because of difficulties raising their arms above their head without pain. Athletes may also be affected and need to take a break from their activities, especially if their sport includes overhead use of their shoulder. Common sports with overhead shoulder use include tennis, swimming, and lifting. Artists may also struggle to paint. Affected individuals may have trouble washing their back when they shower because of this kind of pain.

Read more about the symptoms of shoulder impingement now.

Shoulder Muscle Weakness

The other main symptom of shoulder impingement is shoulder muscle weakness. This can have a detrimental effect on athletes and individuals who engage in physical labor for a living. Construction workers, retail workers who frequently unpack and unload inventory, food service workers who need to unpack and stock inventory, and individuals who work at manufacturing plants may all suffer. Depending on the job and the severity of the condition, patients may still be able to do their job with certain accommodations. But some individuals might be totally unable to complete their day-to-day workplace tasks. Shoulder weakness inhibits the shoulder's ability to function properly. Affected individuals may not have the same range of motion they usually do, and they may not be able to lift the same amount of weight. For some individuals, they'll be able to pick up heavy objects using their arm muscles, but their shoulders will be too weak for them to lift these objects higher than waist level.

Get to know the causes of shoulder impingement next.