Shoulder impingement syndrome is pain and often weakness when you raise your arm, caused by a muscle tendon “catching” in your shoulder.

In shoulder impingement syndrome, the tendon becomes trapped in this space and repeatedly scrapes against the bone above, causing pain that tends to be worse when you raise your arm over your head. You may also experience a persistent ache in your shoulder and pain at night.

Shoulder impingement syndrome can start suddenly after an injury, commonly in both young athletes and middle-aged people. Active individuals who use their arms overhead for swimming, baseball, and tennis are particularly vulnerable to impingement syndrome. Pain may also develop as the result of a minor injury. Sometimes, it occurs with no apparent cause.

Common symptoms of shoulder impingement syndrome

• Pain on the outside of your shoulder; may spread down your arm towards the elbow or wrist.

• Pain made worse when lying on affected shoulder.

• Pain made worse when raising your arm above your head; activities such as washing hair, reaching up to high shelf in the cupboard.

If shoulder impingement syndrome is mild, complete rest of the shoulder is advised so as to prevent further swelling or dammage.  Home remedies such as ice packs are also recommended to ease the pain. Anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to control the pain as well. Rehabilitation exercises may be advised by Dr Siow. This exercises will help to stretch and strengthen your shoulder, and improve your range of movement.

However,it is recommended to seek Dr Siow’s  professional advise if the pain persists after conservative treatment or after long period of rest as it may worsen over time. In severe cases surgical treatments such as arthroscopy may be recommended by Dr Siow as well.