Shoulder Impingement Treatment

Shoulder Impingement Treatment

Are you struggling with shoulder pain that worsens when you lift your arm or reach overhead? You may be experiencing shoulder impingement syndrome, one of the most common causes of shoulder pain. At Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics, our team of expert orthopedic surgeons and specialists provide world-class, evidence-based treatments to help patients overcome shoulder impingement, restore mobility, and return to the activities they love.

We combine advanced diagnostics, comprehensive nonsurgical therapies, and minimally invasive surgical options when necessary. With personalized treatment plans and a proven track record of successful outcomes, we make your recovery our priority.

What is Shoulder Impingement?

Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff and the subacromial bursa (a fluid-filled sac that cushions the joint) become compressed between the bones of the shoulder. This pinching leads to inflammation, pain, weakness, and reduced range of motion.

Patients often notice:

• Pain when lifting the arm overhead
• Weakness or fatigue with repetitive motion
• Night pain that interferes with sleep
• Stiffness or loss of shoulder mobility

If left untreated, shoulder impingement can worsen over time and even lead to rotator cuff tears or chronic shoulder dysfunction. Early treatment is essential to prevent long-term complications.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Most patients improve significantly with conservative care. In fact, 70–90% of patients recover without surgery within a few months when treatment begins early. At PBSO, we tailor nonsurgical care to your unique condition and lifestyle needs.

Common non-surgical treatments include:

• Activity modification: Avoiding overhead or repetitive motions that worsen pain.
• Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs): Reduce swelling and relieve discomfort.
• Ice therapy: Applied several times daily to manage acute inflammation.
• Physical therapy: The foundation of treatment, focused on restoring range of motion, strengthening the rotator cuff and shoulder stabilizers, and correcting posture.
• Corticosteroid injections: Targeted relief for severe inflammation that does not improve with rest or therapy.
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections: An advanced biologic treatment that may promote longer-term healing in some patients.

Our goal is to help you regain strength and flexibility without the need for surgery.

When Surgery is Recommended

While many patients recover without surgery, there are cases where surgical treatment provides the best outcome. Surgery is usually considered after 3-6 months of consistent conservative care without sufficient improvement.

You may be a candidate for surgery if you have:

• Persistent pain that limits daily activities or sleep
• Significant rotator cuff tears
• Structural issues such as bone spurs narrowing the shoulder space
• Loss of function preventing return to work, sports, or hobbies

Our board-certified orthopedic surgeons specialize in arthroscopic, minimally invasive procedures that reduce pain, preserve healthy tissue, and speed recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options

Subacromial Decompression

The most common surgical option, this procedure removes bone spurs, thickened tissue, or an inflamed bursa to enlarge the space around the rotator cuff tendons.

Rotator Cuff Repair

If a rotator cuff tear is present, the tendon is reattached to the bone using advanced anchors or sutures. Depending on the severity, additional techniques may be used to restore full function.
Both procedures are performed arthroscopically using small incisions, reducing scarring, and promoting faster recovery.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Your recovery depends on the type of treatment you receive.

• Nonsurgical recovery: Most patients improve within 6-12 weeks with therapy and home exercises.

Post-surgical recovery:

• Sling immobilization for 1–2 weeks (longer if rotator cuff repair is performed).
• Physical therapy begins soon after surgery, progressing from gentle motion to strengthening.
• Most patients resume daily activities in 2–4 months, with athletes requiring 6–12 months for full return to sport.

At PBSO, we provide personalized rehabilitation plans designed to maximize healing, restore strength, and help you return to normal activity as quickly and safely as possible.

FAQs About Shoulder Impingement

Why Choose Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics

• Expert surgeons and specialists with advanced fellowship training in orthopedic care
• Comprehensive treatment plans including both nonsurgical and surgical solutions
• State-of-the-art technology for accurate diagnosis and minimally invasive procedures
• Personalized rehabilitation programs to ensure long-term success
• Convenient locations across New Jersey and Pennsylvania

Your recovery is our mission. We deliver the expertise, compassion, and innovation you need for lasting relief.

Take the Next Step

If shoulder pain is limiting your daily life, don’t wait for it to get worse. At Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics, we provide expert evaluation, personalized treatment, and advanced surgical options when needed.

Call today to schedule a consultation with one of our orthopedic specialists and take the first step toward a pain-free shoulder and full recovery.