By: Dr. Evan Steinke, D.C., B.Sc — Active Sports Therapy Westman Village
Shoulder pain is very common, and most people experience it at some point whether from working out, playing sports, or simply reaching overhead for something on a shelf. One frequent cause is shoulder impingement, which often couples shoulder pain with a decreased or painful range of motion.
This limited mobility can make everyday tasks difficult and frustrating. The good news is shoulder impingement is very treatable, especially when addressed early.
What Is Shoulder Impingement?
Shoulder impingement occurs when the muscles and tendons in your shoulder become compressed or irritated within the narrow space between your upper arm bone and the top of your shoulder blade.
When you lift your arm overhead, this space naturally narrows. In a healthy shoulder, there’s still enough room for tendons to move freely. However, in the case of an injury, such as a fall or muscle strain, this already narrow space can be reduced even further. This leads to the tendon being “pinched” during movement.
That pinching triggers inflammation and swelling, which further decreases the available space. Over time, this creates a cycle of increasing pain and decreasing mobility, making early treatment important.
Common Causes
● Repetitive overhead movements (e.g., throwing, swimming, weightlifting)
● Poor posture or improper exercise form
● Muscle imbalances or weakness in the rotator cuff and shoulder stabilizers
● Trauma, such as falls or sports-related impacts
Common Symptoms
● Pain when reaching overhead or behind your back
● Discomfort when lying on the affected shoulder
● Limited range of motion or stiffness
● Weakness or fatigue in the arm
● Reduced pain when the arm is at rest
Treatment Options
At Active Sports Therapy Westman Village, a movement-based approach is used to treat shoulder impingement and restore function.
Treatment plans are tailored to each individual and may include:
● Chiropractic care to address joint and soft tissue restrictions
● Postural correction to avoid exacerbation and inflammation
● Rehabilitation exercises and stretching to improve strength and stability
● Active Release Techniques (ART) to support muscle and tendon recovery
● Therapeutic modalities such as laser therapy or IFC to aid healing
Together, these methods help reduce inflammation, restore mobility, and improve long-term shoulder function.
Take the Next Step
If shoulder pain is limiting your daily activities or workouts, early treatment can make a big difference.
Book an appointment with Dr. Evan Steinke, at Active Sports Therapy Westman Village, Mahogany, Calgary to start your recovery and get back to moving comfortably.
