What is Shoulder Impingement?

Shoulder impingement occurs when the rotator cuff tendons and the cushioning bursa become pinched beneath the acromion (roof of the shoulder) during arm movements.

Repeated friction can lead to inflammation of the tendons (tendinitis) and swelling of the bursa (bursitis), resulting in pain and reduced shoulder function.

What causes Shoulder Impingement?

Common causes of Shoulder Impingement include:

• Repetitive overhead activities
• Sports involving throwing or racquet use
• Rotator cuff inflammation or tears
• Bone spurs beneath the acromion
• Age-related wear and tear
• AC joint arthritis
• Subacromial bursitis

What are the common symptoms of Shoulder impingement?

Patients typically complain of:

• Pain while lifting the arm overhead
• Pain on the front or outer side of the shoulder
• Difficulty sleeping on the affected side
• Weakness of the shoulder
• Pain during sports or gym activities
• Clicking or catching sensations

Pain is often worse during activities such as reaching overhead, dressing, lifting objects or playing sports.

How is Shoulder Impingement Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of Shoulder Impingement is based on:

• Clinical examination
• X-rays
• MRI scan
• Ultrasound scan in selected patients

These investigations help identify bursitis, tendon inflammation, bone spurs and associated rotator cuff tears.

What are the Non-Surgical Treatments for Shoulder Impingement?

Most patients with Shoulder Impingement improve without surgery.

Treatment may include:

• Activity modification
• Physiotherapy
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Ice application
• Shoulder strengthening exercises
• Ultrasound-guided steroid injection in selected cases

Most patients improve over 6-12 weeks with appropriate treatment and rehabilitation.

When is surgery recommended for Shoulder Impingement?

Surgery may be considered for treating Shoulder Impingement if:

• Symptoms persist despite physiotherapy
• Pain affects sleep and daily activities
• Steroid injections provide only temporary relief
• MRI shows associated rotator cuff damage

What is Arthroscopic Subacromial Decompression surgery?

Dr. Anand Jadhav performs this procedure using advanced arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery.

The procedure may involve:

• Removal of inflamed bursa (bursectomy)
• Removal of bone spurs
• Creation of additional space for tendon movement
• Treatment of associated rotator cuff tears if present

Advantages of Arthroscopic Surgery

• Tiny scars
• Less pain
• Faster recovery
• Day-care or short hospital stay
• Early return to activities

How is the recovery after Subacromial Decompression?

• Typical recovery milestones include:
• Sling support: 1-2 weeks
• Return to office work: 1-2 weeks
• Return to routine activities: 4-6 weeks
• Return to sports: 8-12 weeks

A structured physiotherapy programme plays an important role in restoring strength and shoulder movement.

Why Early Treatment Matters?

Untreated impingement may progress to:

• Chronic bursitis
• Rotator cuff tendinitis
• Partial tendon tears
• Full thickness rotator cuff tears
• Persistent shoulder stiffness

Early diagnosis and treatment often prevent more serious shoulder problems from developing.

Why Choose Dr. Anand Jadhav?

Dr. Anand Jadhav has over 30 years of orthopaedic experience and specialises in:

• Shoulder Arthroscopy
• Rotator Cuff Surgery
• Sports Shoulder Injuries
• Shoulder Stabilisation Surgery
• Shoulder Replacement Surgery

His treatment approach focuses on accurate diagnosis, personalised rehabilitation and helping patients return to work, sports and active lifestyles as quickly and safely as possible.