Shoulder Impingement Syndrome Treatment in Schaumburg, IL
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Shoulder impingement syndrome is a common and painful condition that occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff become compressed between the head of the humerus bone and a part of the shoulder blade. When left untreated, this compression can lead to chronic inflammation and, over time, may weaken the rotator cuff tendons—potentially resulting in a torn rotator cuff.
At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, our team of highly experienced, board-certified orthopedic shoulder specialists can accurately diagnose your condition and create a personalized treatment plan to provide the relief you deserve from shoulder impingement syndrome:
If you're experiencing shoulder pain that could be impingement syndrome, our specialists can provide the expert care you need. Don't wait to address your shoulder injury. Book an appointment with a Barrington Orthopedic Specialists physician. For urgent needs, visit our Immediate Orthopedic Care Clinic in Schaumburg, IL.
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: Diagnosis & Treatment
Dealing with shoulder impingement syndrome? Understanding the condition and your treatment options is the first step toward recovery. At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, our board-certified shoulder and sports medicine team is here to create a plan that gets you back to your life.
Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when the tendons or bursae in the shoulder become compressed by the surrounding bones, most commonly between the rotator cuff tendons and the top of the shoulder blade (acromion). Repetitive overhead activity, poor posture, muscle imbalances, and certain bone abnormalities can all contribute to this compression, leading to pain, weakness, and limited mobility.
To accurately diagnose your condition, our specialists will perform a thorough physical examination, reviewing your symptoms, activity levels, and medical history. We may ask you to perform specific movements to pinpoint the source of your discomfort. In some cases, we may order imaging tests such as an X-ray, MRI, or ultrasound to assess the degree of tendon involvement and rule out other shoulder conditions, such as a rotator cuff tear.
Once we have a clear diagnosis, we'll create a personalized treatment plan aimed at reducing pain, restoring function, and helping the affected tendons heal.
Orthopedic Shoulder Specialists at BOS
Meet the shoulder specialists who diagnose and treat shoulder impingement syndrome for patients across the Barrington Orthopedic Specialists network.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes Shoulder Impingement Syndrome?+
Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when the rotator cuff tendons or the subacromial bursa become compressed, irritated, or inflamed as they pass through the narrow subacromial space beneath the acromion bone. Several factors can contribute to this condition, including repetitive overhead activity such as throwing, swimming, or lifting; poor posture that affects shoulder alignment; muscle imbalances or weakness in the rotator cuff; and bone abnormalities that narrow the space where the tendons pass through.
What Are the Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome?+
The most common symptoms of shoulder impingement syndrome include:
- Pain when reaching overhead or extending the arms behind the back
- Shoulder weakness and difficulty lifting objects
- Persistent discomfort, especially during sleep or with prolonged use
- A dull ache deep in the shoulder that worsens with activity
- Tenderness at the front or side of the shoulder
What Are the Treatment Options for Shoulder Impingement Syndrome?+
Nonsurgical Treatments
Most cases of shoulder impingement syndrome respond well to conservative care. Treatment options include:
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) – Medications such as aspirin, naproxen, or ibuprofen can help reduce swelling and relieve pain.
- Ice therapy – Applying ice packs for 15–20 minutes several times a day can help manage inflammation, especially in the early stages.
- Physical therapy & manual therapy – A structured therapy program incorporating gentle joint mobilization, soft tissue massage, and targeted shoulder stretches helps restore normal range of motion and strength.
- Range-of-motion exercises – Guided exercises help maintain shoulder mobility and prevent stiffness from developing.
- Corticosteroid injections – In cases where pain persists despite other treatments, a corticosteroid injection into the shoulder may provide significant relief.
Surgical Treatment
If conservative treatments do not provide adequate relief after several months, surgical intervention may be considered. The most common procedure is arthroscopic shoulder surgery, during which a surgeon removes the tissue or bone that is causing the impingement, creating more space for the rotator cuff tendons to move freely.
How Long Does Recovery from Shoulder Impingement Syndrome Take?+
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and the chosen course of treatment. With nonsurgical care, most patients begin to experience improvement within a few weeks and can return to light activities within 2 to 4 weeks. Full recovery typically takes 3 to 6 months, though more severe cases may require up to 12 months. Patients who undergo surgery can generally expect a longer recovery period, guided by a structured physical therapy program.