Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.

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What is shoulder impingement syndrome?

Shoulder impingement syndrome (SIS) happens when the tendons or bursa become trapped between bones of your shoulder joint. You have pain when you reach over your head or lie on the shoulder while sleeping. You may also have pain when you move your arm out to the side or behind your body.

What can cause SIS?

• Repeated use as in swimming, tennis, and throwing a ball
• Trauma such as a fall, in which you landed on your shoulder
• Osteoarthritis in your shoulder
• Weakness in your rotator cuff and shoulder blade muscle
• The bursa or ligaments in your shoulder become inflamed and thick

How is SIS diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms. He or she will ask about your work and hobbies. Your healthcare provider will have you move your arm and shoulder in different directions. He or she will do tests to check the strength and movement of your shoulder. You may need an x-ray to check for bone spurs or arthritis.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

What is the treatment for SIS?

It is important that SIS is treated to avoid complications including rotator cuff tears. Treatments include the following:

• Rest will help your shoulder pain. Limit reaching above your shoulder's height.
• Apply ice on your shoulder for 20 minutes 1 or 2 times in a day. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. You may also use a bag of frozen peas or corn. Cover the bag with a towel. Ice decreases swelling and pain.
• Physical therapy will teach exercises to stretch and strengthen your shoulder. Exercises will also help decrease pain.
• Medicines may be given to relieve pain and swelling.
• Surgery may be needed if your rotator cuff is torn or other treatments do not work.

When should I seek immediate care?

• Your shoulder, arm, hand, or fingers turn bluish or pale, or feel cold or numb.
• Your pain gets worse, even after rest and medicine.
• You cannot move your fingers.

When should I call my doctor?

• You have questions about your condition or care.

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