Physiotherapy for Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Shoulder Impingement Syndrome is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain and functional limitation among adults in Richmond, BC. The shoulder is involved in nearly every daily activity — reaching, lifting, carrying, and exercising. When pain sets in, even simple tasks can become difficult.

At Proactive Health in Richmond, BC, our physiotherapists specialize in assessing and treating Shoulder Impingement Syndrome using evidence-based care. Whether your pain is new or long-standing, physiotherapy can help you reduce discomfort, restore mobility, and prevent flare-ups.

This guide explains what Shoulder Impingement Syndrome is, why it happens, and how physiotherapy supports long-term recovery.

What Is Shoulder Impingement Syndrome?

Shoulder Impingement Syndrome occurs when the rotator cuff tendons or the subacromial bursa become compressed under the acromion — the bony top of the shoulder. This compression, or “impingement,” irritates the soft tissues and leads to pain, inflammation, and loss of range of motion.

Common Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement

People with shoulder impingement often report:

• Pain when lifting the arm overhead

• Pain when reaching behind the back or across the body

• Weakness or fatigue in the shoulder

• Pain when lying on the affected side

• Clicking, catching, or pinching sensations

• Reduced range of motion

• Pain during gym activities, especially pressing motions

Symptoms usually start gradually and worsen with repeated use or poor mechanics.

Why Shoulder Impingement Occurs

Shoulder Impingement Syndrome is rarely caused by one single issue. It typically develops due to a combination of posture, muscle imbalance, mobility restrictions, and repetitive movement patterns.

Common Causes of Shoulder Impingement

• Repetitive overhead activities (swimming, throwing, lifting)

• Poor posture from prolonged desk or computer work

• Weak rotator cuff or scapular (shoulder blade) muscles

• Tight chest and upper-back muscles

• Improper technique during exercise

• Structural variations in the acromion

• Previous shoulder injuries that changed movement patterns

Because the shoulder relies on multiple muscles and joints working together, even small imbalances can lead to irritation in the subacromial space.

How Physiotherapy Helps Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Physiotherapy is the most effective non-surgical treatment for Shoulder Impingement Syndrome. A structured plan can reduce pain, restore mechanics, and protect the shoulder from future injury.

At Proactive Health in Richmond, BC, our physiotherapists create personalized care plans focused on finding and addressing the root cause.

1. Pain Relief and Inflammation Reduction

To calm irritated tissues, your physiotherapist may use:

• Manual therapy

• Soft tissue release

• Joint mobilizations

• Targeted stretching

• Modalities such as laser or ultrasound (based on clinical need)

• Ice or heat therapy

The goal is to reduce pain so you can move without restriction.

2. Restoring Shoulder and Scapular Mobility

Limited mobility in the shoulder joint or shoulder blade often contributes to impingement.

Your physiotherapist may include:

• Shoulder joint mobilizations

• Stretching of the chest, rotator cuff, and upper-back muscles

• Scapular mobility and control exercises

• Thoracic spine mobility training

Improving mobility increases the space available for the rotator cuff tendons to move smoothly.

3. Rotator Cuff and Scapular Strengthening

Strengthening is essential for long-term recovery. Weak rotator cuff and postural muscles place excessive strain on the shoulder joint.

Your strengthening program may include:

• Rotator cuff isometric and resistance exercises

• Scapular stabilization work

• Upper-back and postural strengthening

• Functional training, such as overhead lifting mechanics

• Progressions tailored to your daily activities or sport

This helps ensure the shoulder moves efficiently and without compression.

4. Posture Correction and Ergonomics

Posture plays a major role in shoulder health. Rounded shoulders and forward-head posture reduce the space available for the rotator cuff to function.

Your physiotherapist may address:

• Desk and workstation setup

• Sitting posture for computer or driving

• Lifting techniques

• Sleeping position adjustments

• Upper-body alignment and awareness

Correct posture reduces stress on the shoulder and prevents recurring irritation.

5. Education and Activity Modification

You will also receive guidance on:

• Which movements to avoid temporarily

• When to return to overhead activities

• How to prevent flare-ups

• How to structure workouts without aggravating the shoulder

This empowers you to manage your condition safely and confidently.

Benefits of Physiotherapy for Shoulder Impingement

Physiotherapy is one of the most effective ways to treat shoulder impingement because it addresses both the pain you’re feeling and the underlying factors causing it. A well-structured treatment plan can improve how your shoulder moves, functions, and heals.

Key benefits of shoulder impingement physiotherapy include:

• Reduces pain and inflammation

• Improves shoulder mobility and strength

• Restores healthy rotator cuff function

• Corrects posture and movement patterns

• Helps prevent future injury

• Provides personalized exercises and treatment

• Avoids unnecessary imaging or surgery

Most clients notice improvement within a few sessions, with full recovery depending on severity and how long symptoms have been present.

When to See a Physiotherapist

You should consider booking an assessment if you’re experiencing pain when lifting, reaching, or rotating your arm, especially with overhead movements. Persistent weakness, fatigue, or discomfort that disrupts sleep is also a strong indicator. Many people describe a pinching or catching sensation during activity—another classic sign of impingement. If your symptoms last more than two to three weeks or interfere with workouts, sports, or daily tasks, physiotherapy can help you recover faster and prevent the issue from becoming chronic.

What to Expect During Your Physiotherapy Assessment

A physiotherapy assessment at Proactive Health takes a comprehensive look at your shoulder and the factors contributing to your pain. Your therapist will review your symptom history, evaluate posture and movement, and assess mobility, strength, and rotator cuff function. They’ll also examine how your shoulder blade moves, perform special tests for impingement, and discuss your work habits, exercise routine, and lifestyle.

By the end of the session, you’ll have a clear understanding of what’s causing your symptoms, how your treatment plan will address them, and what to expect throughout your recovery.

What to Expect:

• A detailed history of your symptoms

• Posture and movement analysis

• Strength and mobility testing

• Rotator cuff and scapular assessment

• Special tests for impingement

• Review of your work, exercise, and lifestyle habits

How Long Does Recovery Take

Recovery from Shoulder Impingement Syndrome depends on several factors, including how long the symptoms have been present, the severity of tissue irritation, your daily activity level, and how consistently you follow your physiotherapy plan.

Some people experience improvement quickly once inflammation is reduced and shoulder mechanics are restored, while others need more time to rebuild strength, mobility, and proper movement patterns. Your physiotherapist will guide you through each phase of recovery, ensuring you progress safely and effectively.

Every case is different, but general timelines include:

• Mild impingement: 3 to 6 weeks

• Moderate impingement: 6 to 12 weeks

• Chronic or severe cases: 12 or more weeks

• Athletes returning to overhead sports: 8 to 16 weeks

Shoulder Impingement Syndrome Treatment in Richmond, BC

At Proactive Health, our Richmond physiotherapy team provides expert care for Shoulder Impingement Syndrome using an evidence-based, whole-body approach. We not only treat the painful area but also address posture, movement quality, muscle imbalance, and shoulder mechanics.

Our goal is simple: help you return to pain-free movement and prevent the issue from returning.

Book Your Physiotherapy Treatment Today

Do not let shoulder pain limit your daily life.
If you are experiencing symptoms of shoulder impingement, our team can help you find relief and improve your shoulder function safely and effectively.

📍 Proactive Health
13351 Commerce Parkway Unit 1128
Richmond, BC

Book your appointment online or contact us to learn more.