What is impingement?

Impingement refers to a condition where a body part is pinched or compressed, typically in a joint or between bones and soft tissues. This term is most commonly associated with the shoulder, where the rotator cuff tendons and bursa become irritated and compressed against the shoulder blade’s acromion. Impingement can also occur in other areas, such as the hip, where the bones or soft tissues might impinge on each other.

In the shoulder, impingement is often a result of the mechanical compression of the rotator cuff tendons and bursa against the acromion during shoulder movements. This can lead to inflammation, pain, and reduced range of motion. In the hip, impingement involves abnormal contact between the hip bones, which can cause similar symptoms and affect joint function.

Impingement symptoms

The symptoms of impingement vary depending on the affected area, but they commonly include:

• Shoulder impingement:
  • Pain: Often a sharp or aching pain in the shoulder, particularly when raising the arm or reaching overhead.
  • Weakness: Reduced strength in the shoulder, making it difficult to perform tasks that involve lifting or reaching.
  • Limited range of motion: Difficulty moving the shoulder through its full range of motion.
  • Night pain: Pain that worsens at night, affecting sleep.

• Hip impingement:
  • Pain: Sharp or aching pain in the groin or the front of the hip, which may worsen with activities like walking, running, or prolonged sitting.
  • Stiffness: Reduced flexibility and stiffness in the hip joint.
  • Clicking or catching: A sensation of the hip catching or clicking during movement.

How does Dr Abramson treat impingement?

Dr Michael Abramson provides a comprehensive approach to treating impingement, tailored to the specific needs and severity of each patient’s condition. For those with shoulder impingement, Dr Abramson initially recommends conservative treatments such as physical therapy to strengthen the shoulder muscles and improve flexibility, along with medications like NSAIDs or corticosteroid injections to alleviate pain and inflammation. If these measures are insufficient, he may perform arthroscopic surgery to remove bone spurs or inflamed tissues that are causing compression on the rotator cuff tendons.

In cases of hip impingement, Dr Abramson also starts with non-surgical treatments, including physical therapy and pain management strategies. If symptoms persist, he may opt for arthroscopic surgery to reshape the bones and remove obstructive tissue, aiming to restore normal hip joint function and reduce pain. Dr Abramson’s personalized treatment approach ensures each patient receives the most effective care for their specific condition, promoting optimal recovery and a return to daily activities.

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