Impingement Syndrome and Rotator Cuff Tears Flashcards
Impingement syndrome is seen typically in what age group?
30s-40s
Rotator cuff tears are seen typically in what age group?
50s-60s
What is impingement syndrome?
The tendons of the rotator cuff are compressed in the tight subacromial space during movement, producing pain
What tendon is most likely to be affected in impingement syndrome?
Supraspinatus
Patients with impingement syndrome will typically have pain when? What is this known as? What muscle is this related to?
Between 60-120 degrees abduction (variable)- painful arc, related to the deltoid muscle
Why do patients with impingement syndrome get painful arc?
This occurs as an inflamed part of the tendon passes through the subacromial space
What are the most likely causes of impingement syndrome in a younger patient?
Tendonitis/subacromial bursitis
What is the most likely cause of impingement syndrome in a middle aged patient?
Hooked acromion rotator cuff tear
What is the most likely cause of impingement syndrome in an older patient?
AC joint OA with inferior osteophyte
Pain from impingement typically radiates where?
Deltoid and upper arm
Where may tenderness be felt in impingement syndrome?
Below the lateral edge of the acromion
What clinical test will recreate the pain of impingement syndrome? Briefly describe the test.
Hawkins-Kennedy test: internally rotate the flexed shoulder
When considering a diagnosis of impingement syndrome, what is important to exclude?
Cervical radiculopathy
Are investigations required in order to start treatment for impingement syndrome?
No
What is the first line management for impingement syndrome?
Conservative: NSAIDs, analgesics, physiotherapy, subacromial injections
How many subacromial injections may be required in impingement syndrome?
Up to 3
Cases of impingement syndrome which do not benefit from conservative management could benefit from what?
Subacromial decompression surgery