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Contents
  • What Causes SIS?
  • Understanding the Anatomy
  • Symptoms to Watch For

Is Your Shoulder Pain a Sign of Subacromial Impingement Syndrome?

Is Your Shoulder Pain a Sign of Subacromial Impingement Syndrome?

The Big Picture

Subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS) is a common cause of shoulder pain, often affecting those who engage in repetitive overhead activities. Understanding its causes and symptoms can help in managing the discomfort and improving functionality.
Contents
  • What Causes SIS?
  • Understanding the Anatomy
  • Symptoms to Watch For

What Causes SIS?

SIS occurs when shoulder structures like the rotator cuff and bursa are compressed. Activities that involve repetitive shoulder movements, such as painting or playing sports like tennis, increase the risk. Age is another factor, with older adults being more susceptible.

Understanding the Anatomy

The shoulder is a complex joint allowing a wide range of motion. However, this flexibility can lead to compression of tissues, causing pain. The acromion, a part of the shoulder blade, can vary in shape and contribute to susceptibility to SIS.
Subacromial Impingement Syndrome (SIS) is a condition characterized by shoulder pain due to compression of the rotator cuff and bursa, often seen in individuals engaging in repetitive overhead activities.

Symptoms to Watch For

Typical symptoms include pain during overhead activities and discomfort at night. Athletes might experience stiffness or prolonged warmup periods. A careful physical examination can help identify SIS, though no single test is definitive.

FAQs

What is SIS?

SIS is a shoulder condition caused by compression of joint structures.

Who is at risk?

People engaging in repetitive shoulder activities and older adults are at risk.

What are common symptoms?

Pain with overhead activities and night discomfort are common symptoms.

How is SIS diagnosed?

SIS is diagnosed through a physical exam and history, with imaging to confirm.

Wrapping Up

Understanding SIS can lead to better management of shoulder pain and improved quality of life.
Talk with Doctronic about your shoulder pain and find out if SIS could be the cause.
Additional References
  1. Caliş M, Akgün K, Birtane M, et al. Diagnostic values of clinical diagnostic tests in subacromial impingement syndrome. Ann Rheum Dis 2000; 59:44.
  2. Hawkins RJ, Abrams JS. Impingement syndrome in the absence of rotator cuff tear (stages 1 and 2). Orthop Clin North Am 1987; 18:373.
  3. Neer, CS. Anterior acromioplasty for the chronic impingement syndrome in the shoulder. A preliminary report. J Bone Joint Surg 1972; 54A:41.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.