Shoulder pain is a common issue that can affect your daily activities and overall quality of life. Impingement syndrome, in particular, is a prevalent cause of shoulder pain that can make simple movements difficult and uncomfortable. If you or someone you know is dealing with this condition, understanding what it is and exploring effective treatment options is the first step toward relief.
What is Impingement Syndrome of the Shoulder?
Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when the tendons or bursa in the joint become compressed or pinched during movement. This condition often leads to inflammation and irritation of the affected area, resulting in pain and limited range of motion. It is sometimes referred to as swimmer’s shoulder since athletes who engage in repetitive overhead movements are common sufferers. However, anyone can develop this condition.
Your shoulder joint is a highly mobile structure. It is supported by several muscles and tendons, including the rotator cuff. Impingement typically occurs when the space between the rotator cuff and a part of the shoulder blade known as the acromion becomes too narrow. This narrowing can cause irritation or damage to the tendons and bursa, leading to persistent discomfort, weakness, and reduced mobility.
Common Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement
Some symptoms of impingement syndrome include:
- Having difficulty lifting your arm above your head
- Pain when reaching behind your back
- A persistent ache in the shoulder, even while resting
- Weakness in the affected arm
- A reduced range of motion when moving your shoulder
Unless treated, shoulder impingement can lead to more severe issues such as rotator cuff tears or chronic shoulder instability.
What Causes Shoulder Impingement Syndrome?
Impingement syndrome typically has several potential causes. Being aware of these can help prevent further strain or injury to the shoulder. Key factors contributing to impingement include:
- Frequent Overhead Movements: Repetitive overhead motions, which are common in sports like swimming, tennis, and baseball, can strain your shoulder.
- Poor Posture: Rounded shoulders or a slouched posture can alter shoulder mechanics, contributing to impingement.
- Age-Related Wear and Tear: It’s only natural for tendons to lose their elasticity over time. This increases the risk of impingement.
- Shoulder Injuries: A previous shoulder injury may result in structural changes that narrow the space in the joint.
- Bone Spurs: These small bony growths near the shoulder joint can contribute to the pinching of tendons or bursa.
If you identify with any of these risk factors and are experiencing shoulder pain, it is wise to consult a specialist for diagnosis and treatment.
How Paul Meli Orthopedics Effectively Treats Impingement Syndrome
At Paul Meli Orthopedics, the goal is to not only alleviate your pain but to restore full shoulder function. Dr. Paul Meli brings years of expertise and a patient-centered approach to treating impingement syndrome. Through evidence-based techniques and personalized care, he ensures lasting relief and improved quality of life.
Here are some of the methods used to treat impingement syndrome of the shoulder at Paul Meli Orthopedics:
1. Accurate Diagnosis and Assessment
Treatment begins with a thorough evaluation of your shoulder. Dr. Meli uses advanced diagnostic tools, including imaging and physical examinations, to pinpoint the root cause of your discomfort. This ensures that the treatment targets the precise issue, whether it is related to inflammation, structural abnormalities, or previous injuries.
2. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
Physical therapy often serves as the first line of treatment for impingement syndrome. A tailored rehabilitation program may include:
- Exercises designed to improve your shoulder strength and flexibility
- Posture correction to ensure proper shoulder mechanics
- Techniques to reduce swelling and restore range of motion
Paul Meli Orthopedics works with experienced physical therapists to help you recover faster and prevent recurrence.
3. Minimally-Invasive Procedures
When conservative treatments do not provide adequate relief, minimally-invasive procedures may be recommended. These treatments may involve injections to reduce inflammation and pain or arthroscopic surgery to repair damaged tissues and remove any structural issues like bone spurs.
Dr. Meli is highly skilled in performing arthroscopic procedures, ensuring swift recovery and minimal scarring for his patients.
- Expert Guidance on Preventing Future Injuries
One of the hallmarks of care at Paul Meli Orthopedics is the emphasis on prevention. Dr. Meli provides patients with actionable advice on avoiding reinjury. This includes guidance on how to modify daily activities and maintain proper posture to protect your shoulder in the long term.
Why Choose Dr. Paul Meli for Your Orthopedic Care?
Choosing the right orthopedic specialist can make all the difference in your recovery. Here is why Dr. Paul Meli is a top-rated choice for treating impingement syndrome of the shoulder:
- Extensive Expertise: With years of experience in orthopedics, Dr. Meli specializes in diagnosing and treating complex shoulder conditions.
- Patient-Centered Care: Dr. Meli takes the time to listen to your concerns and tailors treatment plans to your unique needs.
- Cutting-Edge Techniques: From advanced diagnostics to minimally-invasive procedures, the latest medical innovations are used to provide optimal care.
- Proven Results: Dr. Meli has helped countless patients recover from impingement syndrome and return to their daily activities, pain-free.
Take the First Step Toward Shoulder Pain Relief
Living with shoulder pain does not have to remain your reality. Impingement syndrome of the shoulder is treatable, and timely care can prevent it from worsening. If you are ready to regain mobility and lead a pain-free life, Dr. Paul Meli and his team in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, are here to help.
Call us at (954) 324-7711 or use our Request an Appointment form to schedule a consultation.
Do not wait any longer to find relief—contact us now.
