Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Shoulder Impingement
What is an impingement of the shoulder?
Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when the tendons of the shoulder muscles become irritated and swollen as they pass through a narrow space beneath the acromion, known as the subacromial space. This condition can cause pain, reduced range of motion, and discomfort during arm movements. Physiotherapy at Ace Physio Sports is an effective way to treat shoulder impingement, helping to reduce inflammation, restore mobility, and strengthen the surrounding muscles for long-term shoulder health. Ask ChatGPT
What causes shoulder impingement?
Shoulder impingement is commonly caused by overuse of the shoulder, particularly through repetitive overhead activities such as throwing, swimming, or lifting weights in the gym. Certain occupational tasks, like frequent reaching or lifting overhead at work, can also contribute. In many cases, muscle imbalances around the shoulder alter the way the joint moves, narrowing the subacromial space and increasing the likelihood of tendon irritation.
What are the symptoms of shoulder impingement?
The early symptoms of shoulder impingement are often mild, which is why many people delay seeking treatment. Over time, these symptoms typically worsen as inflammation and irritation increase. Initial signs may include:
- reduced range of movement
- swelling/ inflammation
- stiffness
- weakness
- joint clicking
- joint locking
What should I do if I have shoulder impingement?
If you suspect you have shoulder impingement, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Delaying care can allow the condition to worsen, leading to increased pain, restricted movement, and in some cases, progression to a frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis). Early diagnosis and management greatly improve the chances of a full recovery.
Treatment for shoulder impingement
Physiotherapy is the preferred and most effective treatment for shoulder impingement. Surgery is rarely needed unless a comprehensive course of physiotherapy has been completed without success.
Your physiotherapist may recommend relative rest—reducing or avoiding activities that aggravate your symptoms, particularly repetitive or overhead movements. The focus of rehabilitation will be to:
- Manipulation / Mobilisation
- Sports Injury Rehab
- Exercise Programmes
- Massage
- Postural Realignment
Your physiotherapist may also recommend a local anaesthetic and cortisone injection to help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. This can make it easier to participate in rehabilitation exercises effectively.
If physiotherapy does not fully resolve your symptoms, you may be referred for a surgical opinion. One common procedure for persistent shoulder impingement is subacromial decompression, in which the surgeon removes a small portion of bone to widen the subacromial space. This creates more room for the rotator cuff tendons to move without friction or irritation.
Following surgery, a structured physiotherapy programme is essential to restore shoulder movement, rebuild strength, and ensure a full and speedy recovery.
What shouldn’t I do if I have shoulder impingement?
What shouldn’t I do if I have shoulder impingement?
Does shoulder impingement have any long-term effects?
Yes. If left untreated, shoulder impingement can progress to more serious conditions such as a frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis), which can significantly limit movement and require a longer recovery period.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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Sat: 8am - 4pm
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