To help you understand and navigate through your orthopedic health decisions, we have created a patient education section. Please select from one of the categories below to learn more about your condition or procedure:
Shoulder impingement syndrome is a common cause of shoulder pain that occurs when the rotator cuff tendons or surrounding soft tissues become compressed during shoulder movement. This compression can lead to inflammation, pain, and reduced range of motion—especially when lifting the arm overhead.
Shoulder impingement typically develops when the space between the upper arm bone (humerus) and the acromion (part of the shoulder blade) becomes narrowed. Common causes include:
Athletes, manual laborers, and individuals who perform frequent overhead motions are especially prone to this condition.
Symptoms of shoulder impingement may include:
Without treatment, impingement can progress and increase the risk of rotator cuff tears.
An orthopedic specialist will perform a physical examination and review your medical history. Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or MRI scans may be used to evaluate bone structure, tendon health, and inflammation.
Most cases of shoulder impingement can be treated non-surgically, especially when addressed early.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Surgical Treatment
If symptoms persist despite conservative care, minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery—such as subacromial decompression—may be recommended to create more space for the tendons and relieve pain.
Recovery depends on the severity of the condition and treatment approach. Many patients experience significant improvement with physical therapy alone. Surgical patients typically return to normal activities gradually with guided rehabilitation.
If shoulder pain limits your daily activities, disrupts sleep, or fails to improve with rest, an orthopedic evaluation can help prevent further injury and restore function.
If you’re experiencing shoulder pain, stiffness, or limited motion and believe you may have shoulder impingement syndrome, an early evaluation can help prevent further injury and speed recovery.
Schedule a consultation today with one of Orthopedic Centers of Colorado’s shoulder specialists to receive an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan designed to get you back to the activities you enjoy.
We will honor existing appointments through 03/01/2026 without authorization. However, any planned or ongoing treatment may be delayed if authorization is not received (IE: MRI, Surgery, PT/OT).
Please contact your PCP as soon as possible to obtain an authorization if you wish to be seen today or to avoid delays in care.
