Impingement Syndrome & Rotator Cuff Treatment

A shoulder impingement is when the tendons that make up the rotator cuff get pinched between the shoulder blade and arm bones. As a result, tendons get irritated and flare up causing tendonitis. Treatments usually include rest, immobilization, ice, heat, medication and exercise.

Significance

• Rest is particularly important for tendonitis from a shoulder impingement. Further aggravation of the tendons can cause you to tear your rotator cuff. Consequently, surgery may be required to repair the rotator cuff.

Types of Treatment

• Ice should be used during the first 48 to 72 hours to control the initial inflammation and pain. An ice pack should be pressed directly against the source of pain. After the inflammation has subsided, heat can promote blood flow, which carries oxygen and nutrients for healing the tendons.

Other Types of Treatment

• You should also take anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen to reduce inflammation and pain from shoulder impingment and rotator cuff tendonitis. Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements have also been known to help treat this problem.

Effects of Exercise

• Stretching exercises can also increase blood flow as well as flexibility in the rotator cuff tendons. Stretching is most effective if done after inflammation is under control.

Time Frame

• There is no set time frame for healing rotator cuff tendonitis from a shoulder impingement. Those who are more proactive in treatment typically heal more quickly.