If you’re feeling a sharp pinch, aching pain, or restricted range of motion when lifting your arm overhead, you could be dealing with shoulder impingement syndrome. It’s one of the most common causes of shoulder pain, especially in active adults and overhead athletes.
At Adaptive Physiotherapy & Massage in Booragoon, we specialise in shoulder injury diagnosis and rehabilitation, using a combination of manual therapy, corrective exercise, and targeted mobility work based on the latest research.
What Is Shoulder Impingement?
Shoulder impingement syndrome refers to the compression or irritation of soft tissue structures—most often the supraspinatus tendon or subacromial bursa—between the acromion (a bony part of the shoulder blade) and the humerus (upper arm bone).
This space, known as the subacromial space, narrows due to poor posture, muscle imbalances, or bone changes, which causes tissues to become pinched or inflamed, especially with overhead movement.
What Causes Shoulder Impingement?
At Adaptive Physiotherapy & Massage in Booragoon, we often see impingement develop from a combination of the following:
Repetitive overhead activity (e.g., swimming, tennis, gym workouts)
Poor shoulder mechanics and posture (rounded shoulders, forward head)
Weak scapular stabilisers and rotator cuff dysfunction
Tightness in the thoracic spine or chest muscles
Previous shoulder injury or instability
These factors contribute to altered scapulohumeral rhythm, which compromises the smooth movement of your shoulder.
Common Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement
Wondering if your shoulder pain is impingement? Here are key signs:
Sharp pain with overhead movements, such as reaching into a cupboard or lifting weights
Painful arc: Discomfort during 60–120° of shoulder abduction
Night pain, particularly lying on the affected side
Weakness with lifting or rotation
Tenderness at the front or top of the shoulder
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to be assessed by an Adaptive Physiotherapist in Booragoon to avoid progression to rotator cuff tears or chronic dysfunction.
How Is Shoulder Impingement Diagnosed?
At Adaptive Physiotherapy & Massage, our assessment includes:
Physical testing (e.g., Hawkins-Kennedy, Neer’s Test, Painful Arc)
Postural analysis and movement screening
Shoulder strength and scapular stability testing
Most cases do not require imaging unless red flags or severe structural issues are suspected.
Treatment for Shoulder Impingement: What Works?
1. Evidence-Based Management at Adaptive Physiotherapy & Massage in Booragoon
Our physiotherapists follow a clear, progressive protocol focused on:
Reducing pain and inflammation
Restoring normal shoulder mobility
Rebuilding rotator cuff and scapular strength
Correcting faulty movement patterns
Early treatment helps reduce inflammation and address the root causes—not just mask the symptoms.
2. Manual Therapy for Shoulder Impingement
Manual therapy is used to decrease pain and improve joint and soft tissue mobility. Techniques we use at Adaptive Physiotherapy & Massage include:
Glenohumeral joint mobilisations to improve capsule flexibility
Thoracic spine and rib mobilisation to restore posture and range
Soft tissue release of overactive muscles (e.g., pec minor, upper traps)
Myofascial release and trigger point therapy to reduce tension
Manual therapy is most effective when paired with active rehabilitation, not used in isolation.
3. Targeted Exercise Rehabilitation
A structured rehab program is key to long-term recovery. Our approach is staged:
🔹 Phase 1: Pain Control and Muscle Activation
Pendulum exercises
Scapular retraction drills
Isometric rotator cuff holds
Active-assisted range of motion
🔹 Phase 2: Strength and Stability
Theraband external/internal rotation
Prone scapular strengthening (T/Y/I)
Wall push-ups and serratus punches
Resistance rows and eccentric control drills
🔹 Phase 3: Functional Strength and Return to Sport
Overhead press progressions
Medicine ball wall drills
Plyometric push-ups
Sport-specific or occupation-based movement retraining
Your Adaptive Physiotherapist in Booragoon will monitor symptoms and progress your program based on load tolerance and functional goals.
4. Stretching and Mobility
Stretching is vital to address tight anterior structures and restore joint mechanics.
We often include:
Posterior capsule stretches (e.g., cross-body stretch)
Pectoralis minor and major stretches
Thoracic extension mobility drills
Sleeper stretch for internal rotation
Stretching helps restore the subacromial space, which directly reduces tissue impingement.
Preventing Recurrence: Tips from Adaptive Physiotherapy & Massage
Prevention is just as important as treatment. Here’s what we recommend:
Continue regular rotator cuff and scapular strengthening
Avoid overuse of overhead lifting without proper form
Correct your workstation posture if you’re desk-bound
Warm up properly and avoid training through pain
We also provide long-term support for gym members and athletes to help maintain progress beyond rehab.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to recover from shoulder impingement?
Recovery varies, but most clients improve in 6–12 weeks with a consistent physiotherapy program. Chronic or severe cases may take longer.
Do I need a cortisone injection?
Injections may offer short-term relief but do not address the underlying cause. At Adaptive Physiotherapy & Massage in Booragoon, we prefer conservative care first. If necessary, we coordinate with your GP or specialist.
Can I keep exercising with shoulder impingement?
Yes—with modifications. We help you stay active by avoiding aggravating movements while working on your rehab.
Why Choose Adaptive Physiotherapy & Massage in Booragoon?
💡 Shoulder experts with years of clinical experience
✅ One-on-one sessions focused on your goals
💪 Functional rehab to get you back to training, work, and life
📍 Conveniently located in the heart of Booragoon, Perth
Whether you’re a recreational gym-goer or high-performance athlete, we’re here to help you move well, stay strong, and avoid setbacks.
🗓️ Book Your Appointment
Don’t let shoulder pain linger. If you suspect you’re dealing with impingement, book in with an Adaptive Physiotherapist in Booragoon for a full assessment and treatment plan.
📞 Call now or book online with Adaptive Physiotherapy & Massage in Booragoon to start your recovery journey today.
References
Lewis, J. (2016). “Subacromial impingement syndrome: A musculoskeletal disorder or a clinical illusion?” British Journal of Sports Medicine, 50(4), 213–215.
Littlewood, C. et al. (2020). “Shoulder subacromial pain: Pathoanatomy, clinical presentation, and evidence-based rehabilitation.” Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 50(12), 667–676.
Hanratty, C. E. et al. (2012). “Physiotherapy for subacromial impingement: A systematic review.” Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism, 42(3), 297–316.
Kuhn, J. E. (2009). “Exercise in the treatment of rotator cuff impingement: A systematic review and a synthesized evidence-based rehabilitation protocol.” J Shoulder Elbow Surg, 18(1), 138–160.
McClure, P. et al. (2006). “Shoulder function and 3-dimensional scapular kinematics in people with and without shoulder impingement syndrome.” Physical Therapy, 86(8), 1075–1090.
