Shoulder Impingement

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

1. Consultant assessment – Your appointment is led by one of our consultant orthopaedic surgeons, with time to discuss your goals and lifestyle.
2. On-site imaging – We offer same-day ultrasound and MRI scanning to visualise the rotator cuff and bony arch.
3. 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.

Ready To Move Without Pain?

Book a consultation with one of our shoulder specialists today.