Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

How does the shoulder joint work?

In a healthy shoulder the humerus (the bone in your arm) needs to glide over several tendons, a bursa (a special cushion in the shoulder) and a bony outcropping – called the acromion- to allow for ease of movement and full range of motion.  Several muscles (the rotary cuff) provide stabilization of the humerus, so it can tuck under these structures and avoid irritating the surrounding shoulder capsule.  When all the components are in balance, you will experience full range of movement and no pain.

What is shoulder impingement syndrome?

The pain you’re experiencing indicates, the head of humerus is hitting ligaments and/or acromion and/or pinching bursa. The constant friction and rubbing result in inflammation and swelling.  With compression or “impingement” causes micro trauma to the tendons in the shoulder, resulting in thinning of the affected area.  At this point, shoulder impingement syndrome is reversible and will respond quickly to acupuncture.

Without intervention, tissue in the shoulder will become thick and degenerate, leading to tendinopathy and a probable tear in the effected tendon.  Recovery time greatly increases at this point.

Who is prone to this injury?

  • People who perform repetitive overhead movements
  • Athletes – swimmers, tennis players, weightlifters, baseball players
  • Manual labors
  • Individuals with poor posture
  • Individuals with arthritis or bone spurs

Symptoms of shoulder impingement: 

  • Chronic pain in the shoulder – possibly radiating into arm or neck
  • Weakness
  • Limited range of motion
  • Joint stiffness or tenderness

What is the acupuncture treatment process for rotary cuff?

I approach treating Shoulder Impingement Syndrome to your presentation, which involves:

  • Analyzing your posture.
  • Discussing potential lifestyle dynamics impacting the effected shoulder.
  • Muscle testing the rotary cuff for weakness and pain.
  • Targeting effected muscles, releasing motor points, trigger points and relaxing the fascia.

Providing exercises for treatment between acupuncture sessions.

Call (914) 572-5137 today or click here to schedule an appointment & learn more about how we can help you with your pain relief.