Subacromial impingement syndrome occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff or surrounding tissues become compressed in the space between the upper arm bone and the acromion of the shoulder blade. This compression can cause pain, inflammation, and difficulty with overhead movements. Physical therapy helps reduce irritation, restore proper shoulder mechanics, and prevent progression to more serious injuries.
Do you feel a sharp pain in your shoulder when reaching overhead, putting on a jacket, or lifting objects in front of you? Does the pain worsen when you sleep on your side or perform repetitive movements? You may be experiencing subacromial impingement syndrome, a common condition that can make even simple daily tasks uncomfortable.
At Rose Physical Therapy, with locations in Navy Yard, Friendship Heights, and Farragut North in Washington, DC, our experienced physical therapists specialize in diagnosing and treating shoulder impingement so you can return to comfortable, pain-free movement.
What Is Subacromial Impingement?
Subacromial impingement occurs when soft tissues within the subacromial space become compressed between the top of the upper arm bone (humerus) and a bony structure of the shoulder blade called the acromion.
The structures most commonly affected include:
• The supraspinatus tendon, part of the rotator cuff
• The subacromial bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction within the joint
When these tissues become irritated or compressed, inflammation develops and shoulder movement becomes painful.
If untreated, subacromial impingement may progress into conditions such as rotator cuff tendinitis or tendon tears.
Causes of Subacromial Impingement
Several factors can contribute to narrowing of the subacromial space and irritation of the surrounding tissues.
Common contributing factors include:
• Repetitive overhead activities such as tennis, swimming, or throwing
• Occupations involving overhead work, such as painting or construction
• Poor posture or rounded shoulders that alter shoulder mechanics
• Weakness or imbalance in the rotator cuff or shoulder blade muscles
• Inflammation or thickening of the subacromial bursa
• Bone spurs or anatomical variations that reduce space beneath the acromion
• Scapular dyskinesis, or abnormal shoulder blade movement
• Previous shoulder injury or trauma
These factors can gradually increase pressure on the tendons during shoulder movement.
Symptoms of Subacromial Impingement
Subacromial impingement typically develops gradually and may worsen if left untreated.
Common symptoms include:
• Sharp or pinching pain when reaching overhead
• Pain when reaching behind the back or across the body
• Discomfort when lying on the affected shoulder
• Night pain that interferes with sleep
• Weakness or fatigue when lifting objects
• Reduced shoulder range of motion
• Pain during activities such as putting on a coat, fastening a seatbelt, or washing hair
These symptoms may increase during exercise, household activities, or repetitive arm movements.
How Subacromial Impingement Is Diagnosed
At Rose Physical Therapy, diagnosis begins with a detailed physical therapy evaluation.
Your therapist may assess:
Medical and activity history
Understanding when symptoms began and what movements aggravate the shoulder.
Postural assessment
Identifying alignment issues that may contribute to shoulder compression.
Range of motion testing
Evaluating how well the shoulder moves in different directions.
Strength testing
Assessing the rotator cuff and shoulder blade stabilizing muscles.
Special orthopedic tests
Specific clinical tests designed to reproduce impingement symptoms.
In some cases, a physician may order X-rays or MRI imaging if there is concern for structural changes such as bone spurs or rotator cuff tears.
Physical Therapy Treatment for Subacromial Impingement
Subacromial impingement often responds very well to targeted physical therapy.
Your treatment plan at Rose Physical Therapy may include:
Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques to improve joint mobility and reduce tightness in the shoulder and surrounding tissues.
Postural Correction
Exercises and strategies to improve shoulder blade positioning and spinal alignment.
Strengthening Exercises
Targeted strengthening for:
• Rotator cuff muscles
• Shoulder blade stabilizers
• Upper back and core muscles
These muscles help maintain proper shoulder mechanics during movement.
Mobility and Stretching
Stretching programs designed to improve flexibility in the chest, shoulders, and upper back.
Neuromuscular Re-Education
Exercises that retrain the shoulder blade and arm to move in coordinated patterns.
Pain Management
Therapeutic techniques such as heat, ice, or electrical stimulation may be used to reduce pain and inflammation.
Home Exercise Program
A personalized exercise plan to help you maintain progress between therapy sessions.
Subacromial Impingement Treatment in Washington, DC
Shoulder impingement can interfere with everyday activities, but the right rehabilitation program can restore comfortable movement and prevent future injury.
At Rose Physical Therapy, our experienced clinicians provide individualized treatment designed to reduce pain and improve shoulder function.
If you are experiencing shoulder pain from subacromial impingement, schedule an evaluation at one of our Washington, DC locations:
Farragut North
Friendship Heights
Navy Yard
Early treatment can help relieve pain, restore mobility, and get your shoulder moving comfortably again.