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Impingement syndrome in the athletic shoulder
1St. Joseph's Hospital, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.
Clinics in Sports Medicine
|July 1, 1983
Summary
Repetitive overhead arm movements in sports can cause shoulder impingement syndrome, potentially leading to rotator cuff tears. Early diagnosis and conservative treatment are key for young athletes.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Anatomy
Background:
- Repetitive overhead activities in sports commonly lead to shoulder impingement.
- This condition affects the supraspinatus and biceps tendons in an avascular zone.
- Impingement can progress to involve the subacromial bursa, acromioclavicular joint, and rotator cuff.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the pathophysiology of shoulder impingement in athletes.
- To outline diagnostic methods for impingement syndrome.
- To review current therapeutic strategies for young athletes with this condition.
Main Methods:
- Clinical observation and diagnosis based on physical findings, including impingement signs.
- Review of conservative treatment modalities.
- Discussion of indications for surgical intervention.
Main Results:
- Shoulder impingement syndrome is characterized by pain and dysfunction due to repetitive stress.
- Diagnosis is confirmed by specific physical examination findings.
- Conservative management is the primary approach for young athletes.
Conclusions:
- Early recognition and management of shoulder impingement are crucial for preventing long-term damage.
- Conservative treatments, including rest, physical therapy, and modalities, are effective.
- Surgical decompression is rarely necessary but may be indicated in persistent cases.