What is Shoulder Impingement and How Can Physiotherapy Help?

Shoulder impingement is a common condition that causes pain and reduced range of motion, particularly when reaching overhead. It occurs when tendons or the bursa become compressed as the arm is raised — and with the right treatment, most people recover well without surgery.

What is shoulder impingement?

The shoulder joint has a narrow space through which the rotator cuff tendons pass as the arm moves. When this space becomes reduced — due to inflammation, poor movement patterns, muscle imbalance, or changes in the shoulder's structure — the tendons and bursa can become pinched, particularly during overhead movements.

Common symptoms

• Pain when lifting the arm, especially between shoulder height and overhead
• Pain that may worsen at night or when lying on the affected side
• Weakness when reaching or lifting
• A catching or pinching sensation with certain movements

What causes it?

Repetitive overhead activity (sports like swimming or throwing, or occupations involving overhead work), poor posture and shoulder blade positioning, muscle weakness or imbalance around the shoulder, and natural anatomical variation can all contribute to impingement.

How physiotherapy helps

Physiotherapy is the first-line treatment for most cases of shoulder impingement, and typically includes:

• Manual therapy — to improve joint and soft tissue mobility around the shoulder
• Targeted strengthening — particularly of the rotator cuff and shoulder blade stabilising muscles, which help create more space for the tendons to move freely
• Postural and movement correction — addressing patterns that contribute to the compression
• Activity modification — temporary adjustments to aggravating movements while symptoms settle
• Progressive return to activity — a structured plan to safely return to sport or work

When is further investigation needed?

Most cases respond well to physiotherapy within several weeks. If symptoms persist despite a proper rehabilitation program, your physiotherapist may recommend imaging or referral to discuss further options.

Shoulder impingement can be frustrating, but with an accurate diagnosis and the right rehabilitation program, most people return to full, pain-free movement. Book an assessment with our team to get started.