Functional Shoulder Impingement Injuries and Disorders
Shoulder pain caused by muscular imbalance, poor posture, or movement-related dysfunction
Functional shoulder impingement refers to a group of disorders where abnormal movement patterns or muscle imbalances cause compression of the rotator cuff tendons or bursa in the shoulder joint. Unlike structural impingement, which is caused by anatomical abnormalities, functional impingement arises from issues related to movement mechanics. Dr Ben McGrath, an orthopaedic specialist, provides expert diagnosis and personalised treatment plans to restore normal shoulder function and alleviate pain.
- What is Functional Shoulder Impingement?
- Common Symptoms of Functional Shoulder Impingement
- Causes and Risk Factors for Functional Shoulder Impingement
- Diagnosis of Functional Shoulder Impingement
- Non-Surgical Treatments for Functional Shoulder Impingement
- Surgical Treatments for Functional Shoulder Impingement
- When to See Dr Ben McGrath for Shoulder Pain
- FAQs About Functional Shoulder Impingement
What is Functional Shoulder Impingement?
Functional shoulder impingement occurs when poor shoulder mechanics lead to excessive compression of the rotator cuff tendons or the subacromial bursa during arm movements, particularly overhead activities. This condition often results from muscle weakness, imbalances, or improper movement patterns, rather than structural issues like bone spurs.
Common Symptoms of Functional Shoulder Impingement
Patients with functional shoulder impingement may experience:
- Pain During Activity: Discomfort, particularly with overhead motions such as reaching, lifting, or throwing.
- Reduced Range of Motion: Difficulty fully raising or rotating the arm due to pain or stiffness.
- Weakness: A sensation of reduced strength, especially in the affected shoulder.
- Clicking or Popping Sounds: These may occur during certain movements.
- Night Pain: Worsened symptoms at night, particularly when lying on the affected shoulder.
Causes and Risk Factors for Functional Shoulder Impingement
Several factors can contribute to functional shoulder impingement:
- Muscle Imbalances: Weakness or overactivity in specific shoulder muscles can disrupt joint mechanics.
- Poor Posture: Forward-rounded shoulders or slouched posture can narrow the subacromial space.
- Repetitive Overhead Activities: Sports or occupations involving frequent overhead motions can increase the risk.
- Previous Shoulder Injuries: Conditions like rotator cuff injuries or instability can predispose individuals to impingement.
- Core and Scapular Weakness: Weakness in the core or scapular stabilising muscles can lead to compensatory shoulder movements.
Identifying and addressing these factors is essential for effective management.
Diagnosis of Functional Shoulder Impingement
Dr Ben McGrath uses a thorough diagnostic approach to confirm functional shoulder impingement:
- Medical History and Physical Examination: Dr McGrath evaluates symptoms, posture, range of motion, and muscle strength to identify abnormal movement patterns.
- Dynamic Assessment: Observing shoulder mechanics during specific movements or activities may help pinpoint the cause of impingement.
- Imaging Tests: While not always necessary, MRI or ultrasound may be used to rule out structural abnormalities or soft tissue damage.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Functional Shoulder Impingement
Non-surgical management is the mainstay of treatment for functional shoulder impingement:
- Physiotherapy: A physiotherapist can design a program to improve posture, correct muscle imbalances, and restore proper shoulder mechanics. This may include strengthening exercises for the rotator cuff and scapular stabilisers, as well as stretching to improve flexibility.
- Activity Modification: Avoiding aggravating activities and using proper techniques during repetitive motions can reduce symptoms.
- Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any medication.
- Postural Retraining: Focusing on improving overall posture through targeted exercises can help optimise shoulder function.
- Ice Therapy: Applying ice after activity can help reduce pain and inflammation.
These treatments aim to address the root cause of impingement and restore normal shoulder function.
Surgical Treatments for Functional Shoulder Impingement
Surgery is rarely required for functional shoulder impingement, but it may be considered if non-surgical treatments fail or if there are underlying structural issues contributing to symptoms. Options include:
- Arthroscopic Subacromial Decompression: If the subacromial space is narrowed due to inflammation or mild structural abnormalities, this minimally invasive procedure can relieve pressure on the tendons.
- Rotator Cuff Repair: If a rotator cuff tear is identified alongside functional impingement, surgical repair may be necessary.
Dr McGrath evaluates each patient’s condition thoroughly before recommending surgery and ensures that post-operative rehabilitation is optimised for long-term success.
When to See Dr Ben McGrath for Shoulder Pain
If shoulder pain persists for more than a few weeks, limits daily activities, or worsens despite rest and conservative measures, a consultation with Dr McGrath can provide an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
FAQs About Functional Shoulder Impingement
In mild cases, symptoms may improve with rest, posture correction, and targeted exercises. Persistent cases benefit from professional physiotherapy or medical evaluation.
Recovery times vary, but most patients see significant improvement within 6–12 weeks with consistent non-surgical treatment.
Recovery timelines vary by the type of surgery and individual factors. Physiotherapy and following post-surgery guidance from Dr McGrath can support optimal recovery. A physiotherapist can provide a tailored exercise.
