CNY Orthopedic Sports Medicine, PC: Treatment: Shoulder Impingement
 
Injuries and Conditions: Shoulder: Shoulder Impingement: Treatment Options
 
Overview
Initial treatment for shoulder impingement should begin with and include rest and a reduction in activity. The avoidance of all overhead activities is recommended.
 
Treatment options:
Conservative Treatment of Shoulder ImpingementOperative: Shoulder Impingement



Non-Surgical Treatment: Conservative Treatment of Shoulder Impingement
  • Rest and Activity Modification: Initial treatment for shoulder impingement should begin with and include rest and a reduction in activity. The avoidance of all overhead activities is recommended.
  • Medication: Over the counter or prescription medications, including NSAIDs will help to reduce the inflammation and swelling of the shoulder muscles.
  • Icing: Ice applied to the injured shoulder is an excellent way to reduce inflammation and pain.
  • Injections: Moderate to severe cases may be treated with an injection of a corticosteroid into the subacromial area.
  • Physical Therapy: Specific rotator cuff stretches and strengthening exercises may be prescribed by your physician.


    • Non-Surgical Product Considerations
    NSAIDs
     NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) are a group of drugs used to control pain. This category of medications includes both prescription and common over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen. NSAIDs are effective for many types of pain that can occur because of inflammation of muscles, joints and bones. The drugs work quickly and people often notice some benefit within a few hours of taking the tablet. However, the complete effectiveness of the drug may not be realized for up to four weeks. For each individual, some varieties of NSAIDs are more effective than others. Often, patients will find that one or two varieties are helpful whereas others may not be as effective in controlling symptoms. It is usually necessary to try several brands and continue with the one that is most suitable. NSAIDs can be used to treat:
  • Pain resulting from inflammation or swelling.
  • Pain after injury.
  • Joint pain and arthritis.


    • Surgical Treatment: Operative: Shoulder Impingement
    The treatment of subacromial impingement syndrome is dependent on the stage of the condition and the underlying structures of the shoulder that cause the impingement. The surgical procedures used to treat this condition remove the arthritic changes of the acromioclavicular joint or the degenerative bony spurs on the underside of the acromion. The surgical procedure can by carried out under direct visualization or by the use of arthroscopic techniques. The use of the arthroscope is becoming increasingly common and may lessen the post-operative recovery time.
    Surgical Hardware Considerations
    This procedure does not require the implantation of surgical hardware.


     
    Factors in Transplant Source
    This procedure does not require the use of a transplant or graft.

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