What causes rotator cuff impingement syndrome?
As discussed above, the rotator cuff tendon passes in the subacromial space (the space underneath the acromion part of the scapula, or shoulder blade). In impingement syndrome, the rotator cuff tendon gets ‘trapped’ in the subacromial space. The tendon is repeatedly ‘scraped’ against the shoulder blade which can eventually lead to fraying of the tendon. This means that the tendon weakens and is more likely to tear. Impingement syndrome can occur because of longstanding ‘wear and tear’. It can also happen due to problems with the bone of the acromion. These can include arthritis and bony spurs (protrusions).
