Shoulder and Hip Impingement Syndrome

Center for Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics’ joint specialists offer comprehensive care and state-of-the-art treatments for shoulder and hip impingement.

Treatment for Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Impingement occurs when there is pinching or rubbing together inside a joint. Shoulder impingement happens when the outer edge of the shoulder blade squeezes the rotator cuff, causing painful pinching, especially while moving. This condition can present as shoulder pain and tenderness; stiffness and swelling; and pops and cracks when moving the shoulder. Many patients also notice pain when lifting their arm overhead, reaching behind their back, or sleeping on the affected side.

There are three different kinds of shoulder impingement: rotator cuff tendinitis, swelling or irritation of the tendon; shoulder bursitis, inflammation of a bursa; or acromion deformity, a natural variation in the shape of the shoulder blade. Over time, repeated pinching can lead to tendon damage or even a rotator cuff tear if left untreated.

At CSMO, our highly trained physicians specialize in treating painful joint conditions such as shoulder impingement with a combination of cortisone shots, physical therapy, and corrective surgeries.

Treatment for Hip Impingement Syndrome

Hips can also experience impingement. When the natural shape of the hip creates extra friction within the joint, it prevents the hip from moving smoothly. Hip impingement syndrome is a painful condition, and it can cause discomfort with walking and movement, feelings of stiffness and soreness, and future damage to the cartilage that cushions the joint. Pain may spread to the groin, butt, and thighs and can get worse when sitting for long periods, squatting, or rotating the hip.

This condition can be classified into three types: cam impingement, when extra bone grows on the thigh bone; pincer impingement, when there is extra bone growth within the hip socket; and combined impingement, when both of these conditions occur at the same time. Without proper treatment, hip impingement can lead to labral tears, causing further pain.

At CSMO, our skilled providers can help you create a personalized treatment plan to relieve hip pain caused by this condition. Anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and minimally invasive surgeries, such as a hip arthroscopy, can help treat impingement syndrome.

Potential Benefits of Treatment for Impingement syndrome

Treatment for shoulder and hip impingement syndrome can provide both immediate and long-term relief for patients. Potential benefits may include:

  • Relieved pain, swelling, and discomfort
  • Restored mobility within the joint
  • Improved strength and stability for daily activities and sports
  • Prevention of the condition worsening over time

Is Treatment for Shoulder and Hip Pain Right for You?

If you experience consistent joint pain, stiffness, or difficulty walking or moving your shoulder, you may benefit from injections, physical therapy, or surgery. At CSMO, our highly skilled providers will conduct a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and lifestyle to create a personalized plan to relieve pain and restore proper function within the hip or shoulder joint.

When to Consider Surgery for Shoulder and Hip Impingement Syndrome

It may be time to consider surgery if conservative treatment methods no longer work; you have severe symptoms that interfere with your everyday life; or if your condition also involves a rotator cuff tear or hip labral tear.

When surgery is necessary, our skilled surgeons correct any structural problems, remove damaged tissue or cartilage, and protect the long-term health of your joint.

Relief Is Within Reach

Don’t let joint pain limit your movement or keep you from doing what you love. Call us today or schedule an appointment online with one of our highly skilled joint specialists. We’ll help you restore mobility and support long-term joint health so you can get back to living comfortably and confidently.