| In the early stages, impingement syndrome will resolve when the aggravating activity and any overhead work are avoided. Physical therapy to increase range of motion and strengthen shoulder stabilizers may also be helpful. Application of ice (cryotherapy) can relieve pain. Medications to control pain and inflammation are usually prescribed. Injection of corticosteroid and anesthetic agents into the subacromial space is often part of conservative treatment. If the shoulder becomes stiff (complicating adhesive capsulitis), manipulation of the shoulder under anesthesia can be helpful to improve flexibility.
Surgical intervention is an option when individuals fail to improve after several months of physical therapy and subacromial injections. The goal of surgery is to increase the size of the subacromial space and remove inflamed tissue. Reshaping the acromion (acromioplasty) combined with removing the subacromial bursae and cutting the coracoacromial ligament are common procedures. Removal (excision) of any bone spurs and inflamed rotator cuff tissue (débridement) may also be needed. This combination of procedures is often called subacromial decompression. These procedures can be performed either through open surgery (arthrotomy) or arthroscopically. Frequently an excisional arthroplasty of the acromioclavicular joint is also performed. If a labrum tear is present, it can be repaired or débrided at the time of the shoulder surgery. Typically, these are outpatient procedures. |
Source: Medical Disability Advisor