Conditions we treat
Shoulder Impingement Treatment in Surrey, BC
That pinch when you reach overhead or behind your back is the classic sign of shoulder impingement — and it usually responds well without surgery.
What it feels like
- A sharp pinch reaching overhead or out to the side
- A painful 'arc' through the middle of the movement
- Pain at night, especially lying on the shoulder
- Weakness or hesitation with certain reaches
Why it happens
Impingement means the rotator cuff tendons are being compressed and irritated as the arm moves. How your shoulder blade moves and controls the joint usually plays a role — which is why it's rarely just a 'shoulder' problem.
How we can help
We assess the whole shoulder complex — the cuff, the shoulder blade and how they coordinate — to understand what's driving the pinch for you. Your practitioner then builds a personalized care plan and reviews it as your shoulder responds. The encouraging news is that most impingement is managed well with conservative care.
Common questions
Should I stop lifting overhead completely?
Usually not completely. Total avoidance tends to stiffen the shoulder and weaken the muscles that keep the space under the arch clear, which can make things worse over time. Most plans modify how much and how often you go overhead, then rebuild capacity as symptoms settle.
Is impingement the same thing as a rotator cuff tear?
No, although they can occur together and can feel similar. Impingement describes tissue being compressed within the joint; a tear is damage to the tendon itself. The assessment sorts out which picture fits yours, because the two are managed differently.