Shoulder Impingement

9 July 2025

Shoulder impingement syndrome—sometimes called sub-acromial impingement—is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain, particularly in people who perform repetitive overhead activities or sports. At The New Foscote Hospital, Banbury, our consultant-led team offers fast diagnosis, evidence-based treatment and personalised rehabilitation in a single, state-of-the-art facility.

What Is Shoulder Impingement?

Inside the shoulder, the rotator-cuff tendons and a fluid-filled sac called the sub-acromial bursa pass beneath a bony arch (the acromion). When this space narrows—due to inflammation, bone spurs or muscular imbalance—the tendons become trapped and irritated, causing pain and reduced movement.

Common Symptoms

Dull ache on the outer, upper arm
Sharp pain when lifting the arm above shoulder height or reaching behind the back
Night pain, especially when lying on the affected side
Weakness or a catching sensation during overhead activities
Difficulty fastening a bra, putting on a jacket or playing racquet sports

When To Seek Medical Advice

Mild symptoms that settle within a fortnight of rest and over-the-counter pain relief can usually be self-managed. See a specialist promptly if you experience:

Persistent pain lasting more than two weeks
Sudden loss of strength or range of motion
Pain that disrupts sleep
Previous shoulder surgery or injury

Early assessment helps to prevent progression to rotator-cuff tears or frozen shoulder.

Diagnosis at The New Foscote Hospital

Consultant assessment – Your appointment is led by one of our consultant orthopaedic surgeons, with time to discuss your goals and lifestyle.
On-site imaging – We offer same-day ultrasound and MRI scanning to visualise the rotator cuff and bony arch.
Dynamic testing – Ultrasound-guided movement studies pinpoint exactly where the tendons are being pinched.

All investigations happen under one roof, so you leave with a clear diagnosis and treatment plan.

Treatment Options

Non-surgical

Physiotherapy — a personalised programme with our in-house Physiotherapy team focuses on posture, scapular control and rotator-cuff strengthening.

Activity modification & taping – adapt training loads while tissues heal.

Targeted steroid or PRP injections – ultrasound-guided for precision pain relief.

Surgical

Arthroscopic sub-acromial decompression – keyhole removal of impinging bone spurs and inflamed bursa.

Rotator-cuff repair – if imaging shows a full-thickness tear.

Shoulder replacement – reserved for severe, arthritis-related impingement; see Shoulder Replacement Surgery.

Why Choose The New Foscote Hospital?

Consultant-delivered care at every visit – no waiting lists.
Integrated pathway: diagnostics, day-case surgery and rehabilitation under one roof.
CQC-rated “Good” hospital with modern theatres and ensuite patient rooms. cqc.org.uk
Dedicated patient-co-ordinators to arrange appointments around your schedule.
Free on-site parking and easy access from Oxford, Warwick, Northampton and the Cotswolds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is shoulder impingement the same as a rotator-cuff tear?
No. Impingement is tendon irritation caused by narrowing of the sub-acromial space; it can, however, lead to a tear if untreated.

How long does recovery take?
With physiotherapy, many people notice significant improvement within 6–8 weeks. Post-surgery rehabilitation may take 3–6 months.

Will I need an injection?
Not everyone does. We usually start with exercises; an ultrasound-guided injection is offered if pain limits progress.