What is rotator cuff impingement?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscle tendons that helps keep the shoulder in place, and rotator cuff impingement occurs when one of those muscle tendons becomes pinched against part of the shoulder blade, causing pain and limiting movement. This condition may be caused by repetitive movements involving the shoulder joint, especially where the arm is raised above the head. Rotator cuff impingement can be treated using a combination of rest, pain relief, steroid injections and physiotherapy. If it is left untreated, the tendon damage may worsen into a tear, possibly requiring surgical repair.