Shoulder Impingement Stages

Shoulder Impingement stages occur in the development of shoulder impingement syndrome which is caused by the compression of tendons in the shoulder. This can cause pain, and loss of movement within the shoulder.

These are the different stages:

Stage one this is where swelling also called oedema and hemorrhaging occur in the tendon. Stage 2 involves the inflammation of the lubrication sac of the shoulder joint and fibrosis or muscle pain and weakness. Stage 3 is the evolved stage, which is a tear in the rotator cuff itself.

In each stage, you may experience symptoms from previous stage, which overlap. In order to properly diagnose Shoulder impingement syndrome X-rays will need to be taken since fractures, cervical spine pain and tendonitis may look similar and have similar symptoms to shoulder impingement syndrome. MRI scans may also be useful in showing what is happening with the muscles themselves and are basic and standard parts of testing along with X-rays.

Other tests which might be performed to show the shoulder impingement stages are Ultrasound scans which can be used to see if there is rotator cuff damage. Though the opinions on the effectiveness of these tests vary from doctor to doctor, it does show vital information, which can lead to a correct diagnosis and proper treatment options. The best doctor to diagnose something like shoulder impingement syndrome is an orthopedic surgeon these are doctors who specialize in bones and the muscles that go with them.

No matter what tests are ordered it is important to discover the exact cause behind what is causing the shoulder impingement syndrome, and at what point the shoulder impingement stages are at. Once the cause is identified and the stage is identified then treatment plans can be set up and placed into effect to provide you with returned mobility, strength and use of the arm and shoulder. If you think, you may be suffering from symptoms of Shoulder impingement syndrome talk with your doctor as soon as possible to prevent progression. Luckily, the majority of treatment options are simple and easy to do at home. They involve rest, exercises, and things like ice packs to reduce the swelling. Occasionally steroid shots may be needed to help reduce severe inflammation or it may be necessary in some cases to have surgery.