Shoulder pain can be a real game-changer, limiting your ability to do even the simplest things—like reaching for a cup or lifting your arm. If you’ve been dealing with ongoing discomfort, you’ve probably wondered, “What’s causing this pain? Is it something serious?” You’re not alone. Here at ARC Rehabilitation & Pilates, we specialize in helping people just like you understand and overcome shoulder pain.

Two common culprits behind shoulder discomfort are shoulder impingement syndrome and rotator cuff tears. While these conditions can feel similar, their causes, symptoms, and treatments differ significantly. Let’s break it down so you can better understand what might be going on and how we can help.

Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: What You Need to Know

Shoulder impingement syndrome happens when the tendons or bursa in your shoulder get pinched, usually under the acromion (the bony top of your shoulder). This compression can lead to pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Causes of Shoulder Impingement:

• Repetitive overhead movements, common in sports like swimming or jobs like painting.

• Poor posture that shifts your shoulder alignment.

• Muscle imbalances, particularly in the rotator cuff, which can destabilize the joint.

Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement:

• A persistent ache or sharp pain when lifting your arm.

• Nighttime pain, especially if you lie on the affected side.

• Weakness and difficulty reaching behind your back or overhead.

Rotator Cuff Tear: Understanding the Injury

Unlike shoulder impingement, a rotator cuff tear involves actual damage to the tendons surrounding your shoulder joint. These tendons play a crucial role in stabilizing and moving your shoulder, so a tear can cause significant pain and limited mobility.

Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears:

• Sudden injuries, like a fall or lifting something heavy.

• Wear and tear from repetitive use, particularly in older adults.

• Degenerative changes that weaken tendons over time.

Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Tear:

• Sudden, sharp pain after an injury or repetitive strain.

• Weakness in the shoulder, especially when lifting or rotating the arm.

• Limited range of motion and a clicking or popping sound during movement.

Key Differences Between Shoulder Impingement and Rotator Cuff Tears

Understanding the distinctions between shoulder impingement and rotator cuff tears is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. While both conditions can cause discomfort and limit mobility, they differ in their causes, symptoms, and the way they impact your shoulder.

Shoulder impingement typically develops gradually, often due to repetitive overhead movements or poor posture. It causes tendons or bursa in the shoulder to become compressed, leading to a dull ache or sharp pain that worsens with activity. Movement may feel restricted, but complete loss of function is rare.

In contrast, a rotator cuff tear involves an actual injury to the tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. This can occur suddenly after trauma or over time due to wear and tear. Symptoms are often more severe, including sharp pain, significant weakness, and difficulty lifting or rotating the arm. Unlike impingement, a rotator cuff tear can result in a noticeable loss of strength and mobility.

While shoulder impingement can often be resolved with manual therapy and strengthening exercises, a rotator cuff tear may require more intensive rehabilitation or, in severe cases, surgical intervention. Identifying the root cause of your shoulder pain is key to determining the right course of action.

The Role of Your Initial Consultation

If shoulder pain has been bothering you, the first step to relief is an accurate diagnosis. Shoulder impingement and rotator cuff tears are treated differently, so pinpointing the root cause of your pain is crucial.

At ARC Rehabilitation & Pilates, your recovery starts with an in-depth Initial Consultation. During this session, we’ll review your symptoms, assess your shoulder’s range of motion and strength, and identify the underlying issue. This ensures we create a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs.

Treatment Options at ARC Rehabilitation & Pilates

Whether you’re dealing with shoulder impingement or a rotator cuff tear, we have the expertise and resources to help. Here’s how we approach these conditions:

For Shoulder Impingement Syndrome:

• Manual Therapy: To reduce inflammation and restore joint mobility.

• Postural Training: Correcting posture to relieve strain on the shoulder.

• Strengthening Exercises: Building stabilizing muscles to prevent future issues.

For Rotator Cuff Tears:

• Rehabilitation Exercises: Carefully designed to rebuild tendon strength and improve mobility.

• Stretching Programs: To maintain flexibility while avoiding strain on the injury.

• Ongoing Support: Monitoring your progress and adjusting your plan as needed.

Why Choose ARC Rehabilitation & Pilates?

We know shoulder pain can feel like an endless cycle of discomfort and frustration. But at ARC, we pride ourselves on tackling the tough cases and providing long-term relief. Our personalised, hands-on approach ensures that you’re not just treating the symptoms—you’re addressing the root cause of your pain.

Take the First Step Toward Pain-Free Shoulders

If shoulder pain is holding you back, don’t wait to get help. Schedule your Initial Consultation with ARC Rehabilitation & Pilates today, and let us guide you toward recovery. Whether it’s shoulder impingement syndrome, a rotator cuff tear, or something else entirely, we’ll create a treatment plan that gets you back to doing the things you love.

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0861763809

Your shoulders deserve the best care—let us help you get there!