Impingement syndrome refers to the mechanical compression and/or wear of the rotator cuff tendons as they pass under the bony structure of the shoulder. This compression can cause inflamation of the subacrominal bursa and other structures of the joint, resulting in a persistent increase in pain, tenderness, and loss of motion in the affected shoulder. Normally the rotator cuff glides smoothly and without irritation between the undersurface of the acromion and the humeral head. A healthy rotator cuff is essential to shoulder strength, flexibility, and control. One potential outcome of impingement syndrome is a rotator cuff tear.
The rotator "cuff" is actually a collective or a cohesion of a group of four musculoskeletal structures that share a common tendon. The muscles originate at different places on the shoulder blade and insert on the upper portion of arm bone. This group of muscles attach on or near the humeral head humerus, via a combined tendon.
Common rotator cuff injuries include, in addition to impingement, tendonitis, bursitis, and tears of the rotator cuff.
Impingement is more common in older adults, ages 50+.
Activities frequently associated with this injury include, tennis, swimming, baseball, and football.
Non-surgical treatment is effective therapy for cuff injuries that do not involve a tear.
A full tear will require surgery as the torn or abraded tendons will not heal without surgical repair or augmentation.
