You Need To Consider Doing This If Your Shoulder Impingement Is Not Improving With Massage

Shoulder impingement is a painful condition that occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff become compressed between the bones of the shoulder, often causing pain and limiting range of motion. Whether it’s from repetitive overhead movements, injury, or aging, shoulder impingement can significantly affect your ability to lift objects, reach overhead, or perform basic tasks like dressing or reaching for something on a shelf.

The emotional toll of shoulder impingement can be just as significant as the physical pain. The inability to perform daily tasks or participate in activities you enjoy can cause frustration, stress, and feelings of helplessness. If massage therapy hasn’t provided lasting relief from your shoulder impingement, it may be time to consider alternative treatments that address the root cause of the condition and help you regain full mobility.

Massage: A Common Approach to Treating Shoulder Impingement

Massage therapy is commonly used to alleviate the symptoms of shoulder impingement by helping to relax tight muscles, improve circulation, and reduce tension around the shoulder joint. Techniques such as kneading, pressing, and gentle stretching can help soothe the muscles surrounding the shoulder and temporarily ease the pain associated with impingement.

However, massage can be repetitive and time-consuming. Many individuals find themselves needing frequent sessions to maintain any relief, and the cost of regular treatments can quickly add up. While massage may offer short-term comfort, it often does not address the underlying cause of the shoulder impingement, meaning that the pain may return once the effects of the massage wear off.

Why Getting a Clear Diagnosis Is Crucial

Shoulder impingement can be caused by several factors, and a clear diagnosis is essential for identifying the most effective treatment approach. Here are five common causes of shoulder impingement:

1. Rotator Cuff Tendonitis – Inflammation of the tendons in the rotator cuff can cause pain, especially when lifting or reaching overhead.
2. Bursitis – Inflammation of the bursa (a fluid-filled sac that cushions the shoulder joint) can cause pain and swelling, restricting movement.
3. Bone Spurs – Bony growths that form on the bones of the shoulder can narrow the space where the tendons pass, leading to impingement.
4. Postural Issues – Poor posture or muscle imbalances can contribute to shoulder impingement by altering the alignment of the shoulder joint.
5. Rotator Cuff Tears – Tears in the rotator cuff tendons can lead to instability, inflammation, and impingement of the tendons between the bones.

In addition to these common causes, there are two less common but potentially serious causes of shoulder pain:

1. Fractures – A break in the bones of the shoulder can affect the rotator cuff and lead to impingement.
2. Instability – Repeated dislocations or instability of the shoulder joint can lead to injury and impingement of the rotator cuff tendons.

The Need for Imaging to Get a Precise Diagnosis

It’s important to understand that shoulder impingement cannot always be fully diagnosed through symptoms or a physical exam alone. Imaging techniques such as X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds are necessary to assess the condition of the tendons, muscles, and bones in the shoulder. These diagnostic tools help healthcare providers accurately identify the source of the impingement and determine the most effective course of treatment.

The Pain Relief Clinic: Your Partner in Finding a Clear Diagnosis

At The Pain Relief Clinic, we understand how shoulder impingement can affect your ability to move freely and perform basic activities. With over a decade of experience, we specialize in offering comprehensive, non-invasive diagnostic services to uncover the root cause of your pain. If you’ve been struggling with shoulder impingement and haven’t found lasting relief, we can arrange for affordable scans, typically within one working day. Medisave can often be used to help cover the cost of these scans, making them more accessible for you.

We also assist with insurance claims, including accident insurance, travel insurance, and company insurance, ensuring that you can access the care you need without added financial stress.

Once we have a clear diagnosis, we can provide targeted treatments, solutions, and non-invasive technology to help alleviate your shoulder impingement and restore your mobility.

Ready to take control of your shoulder pain? Send us a message today to arrange an appointment and begin your journey toward lasting relief from shoulder impingement.