A Complete Guide to Shoulder Impingement
Introduction
Shoulder pain can be incredibly frustrating, especially when it interferes with everyday activities like reaching overhead, getting dressed, or even sleeping comfortably. One of the most common causes of shoulder pain is shoulder impingement syndrome, a condition that can affect anyone from athletes and office workers to busy parents and manual workers.Left untreated, shoulder impingement can lead to more serious issues such as rotator cuff tears or chronic pain. That’s why early intervention and expert care are essential — and at Elite Physio and Therapy, we specialise in exactly that.
What is Shoulder Impingement?
Shoulder impingement happens when the rotator cuff tendons are pinched or compressed in the subacromial space (the area between the top of the shoulder blade and the upper arm bone). This causes irritation, pain, and inflammation.Common causes include:
- Repetitive overhead activity (e.g., sports, lifting, decorating)
- Poor posture from prolonged desk work
- Muscle imbalances or weakness
- Previous shoulder injuries
- Bony changes such as bone spurs
You're more at risk if you're involved in high-impact sports, physical work, or spend long hours in poor posture.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms often include:
- Pain when lifting your arm or reaching overhead
- Weakness in the shoulder
- Pain that worsens at night or when lying on the affected side
- Clicking or catching in the shoulder
- Limited range of motion or stiffness
If these symptoms last more than a few weeks, early assessment is key to avoid longer-term problems.
How is it Diagnosed?
At Elite Physio and Therapy, we provide an expert diagnosis through:
- Detailed Clinical History – Understanding your activities, lifestyle, and previous injuries.
- Postural and Movement Assessment – Looking at how your shoulder, spine, and ribs are working together.
- Special Tests – Such as the Neer and Hawkins-Kennedy tests to identify impingement signs.
- Referral for Imaging – If required, we liaise with GPs or consultants to arrange scans to confirm the diagnosis.
Why Choose Elite Physio and Therapy?
We don’t just treat your symptoms — we find the root cause and fix it. Here’s what makes us different:
🟢 Experienced, Specialist Physios
Our team has extensive clinical experience treating shoulder injuries, from minor impingements to post-surgical rehab. We work with athletes, professionals, and active individuals every day.
🔵 Reformer Pilates & Tower Integration
We are one of the few clinics that integrate Reformer and Tower Pilates equipment into rehabilitation. This allows us to:
- Build deep shoulder stability in a low-load, controlled environment
- Train whole-body coordination and postural support
- Progressively load the shoulder through functional, pain-free ranges
🟣 Myofascial Movement & Postural Training
We use myofascial release techniques and movement retraining to address the tension patterns that often contribute to impingement — particularly in the neck, upper back, and shoulder girdle. This is vital for long-term recovery.
🟡 Tailored, Whole-Body Approach
We don’t just look at your shoulder. We assess how your spine, hips, breathing, and core stability are influencing shoulder movement — and we correct the entire chain for lasting results.
Our Rehab Approach
1. Comprehensive Assessment
We identify not just what hurts but why it hurts. This means examining your posture, movement control, strength imbalances, and even lifestyle factors.
2. Hands-On Therapy & Individualised Exercise
- Soft tissue release & joint mobilisations
- Specific strengthening of the rotator cuff, scapular stabilisers, and core
- Reformer and mat-based Pilates rehab
- Postural and ergonomic coaching
3. Education & Self-Management
We empower you with the knowledge and tools to manage your symptoms at home, modify aggravating activities, and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Self-Help Tips While You Heal
While professional assessment is key, here are a few things you can do to support your recovery:
✅ Modify Activity – Reduce or pause repetitive overhead movements
✅ Apply Ice or Heat – Ice reduces inflammation; heat can help relax tight muscles
✅ Correct Posture – Pay attention to desk setup and sitting habits
✅ Simple Rehab Moves:
- Resistance band external rotations
- Scapular retraction exercises
- Wall angels to promote scapular control
When to Seek Help
If your shoulder pain has persisted for more than 2 weeks, worsens with activity, or stops you sleeping or working comfortably — it’s time to see a specialist. The earlier you get started, the easier your recovery will be.
Your Recovery Starts Here
Shoulder impingement doesn’t have to hold you back. At Elite Physio and Therapy, we blend expert physiotherapy, Pilates-based rehab, and myofascial movement techniques to get you moving pain-free again — faster and more effectively than traditional rehab alone.
📅 Book Your Free Consultation Today
Whether you’re an athlete, desk worker, or busy parent — we’re here to help you get back to what you love, stronger than before.
👉 BOOK NOW or call us on 07950860215 to speak to one of our friendly team.
