Subacromial Pain Syndrome
What is Subacromial Pain Syndrome?
Subacromial pain syndrome, also known as shoulder impingement syndrome, is a common cause of shoulder pain. It occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles become irritated and inflamed as they pass through the subacromial space, which is the area between the acromion (a bony process on the shoulder blade) and the humeral head (the top of the arm bone).
Symptoms of Subacromial Pain Syndrome
The main symptoms of subacromial pain syndrome include:
- Pain in the shoulder that worsens with overhead activities
- Pain that radiates down the arm
- Weakened shoulder muscles
- Difficulty reaching behind the back
- Shoulder stiffness
Treatment Options
Conservative Treatment
Conservative treatment options for subacromial pain syndrome include rest, ice, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications.
Steroid Injections
In some cases, steroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and pain in the shoulder.
Surgery
If conservative treatments do not alleviate the pain, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged tendons in the shoulder.
Prevention
To prevent subacromial pain syndrome, it is important to maintain good posture, avoid repetitive overhead activities, and strengthen the muscles of the shoulder and upper back.
FAQ
1. What causes subacromial pain syndrome?
Subacromial pain syndrome is often caused by overuse of the shoulder, leading to inflammation and irritation of the tendons in the subacromial space.
2. How is subacromial pain syndrome diagnosed?
Diagnosis is typically made based on a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as x-rays or MRI scans.
3. Can subacromial pain syndrome be cured?
While subacromial pain syndrome can be effectively managed with proper treatment, it may not be completely cured in some cases.
4. What are the risk factors for developing subacromial pain syndrome?
Risk factors include age (more common in individuals over 40), repetitive overhead activities, poor posture, and muscle imbalances.
5. Are there exercises that can help with subacromial pain syndrome?
Yes, exercises that focus on strengthening the rotator cuff muscles and improving shoulder stability can help alleviate symptoms of subacromial pain syndrome.
6. Is surgery always necessary for subacromial pain syndrome?
No, surgery is typically considered only after conservative treatments have failed to provide relief.
7. How long does it take to recover from surgery for subacromial pain syndrome?
Recovery time can vary depending on the type of surgery performed, but most patients can expect to resume normal activities within 6-12 weeks.
8. Can subacromial pain syndrome lead to other shoulder problems?
If left untreated, subacromial pain syndrome can lead to more severe shoulder conditions such as rotator cuff tears or shoulder impingement.
9. Is subacromial pain syndrome more common in athletes?
While athletes who engage in repetitive overhead sports are at a higher risk, subacromial pain syndrome can also affect non-athletes due to everyday activities that strain the shoulder.
10. How can I prevent subacromial pain syndrome from recurring?
Regularly performing shoulder-strengthening exercises, maintaining good posture, and avoiding repetitive overhead activities can help prevent the recurrence of subacromial pain syndrome.