Shoulder Impingement Syndrome - Is it really pinching? - Fighting Fit Physiotherapy Nerang Gold Coast

Shoulder pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints, affecting people of all ages and activity levels.

One of the most frequently diagnosed causes of shoulder discomfort is shoulder impingement syndrome.

But what does shoulder impingement really mean?

And are we misunderstanding it?

In this blog, we’ll explore what shoulder impingement is, debunk some common myths, and look at whether the condition is as “simple” as it sounds.

What Is Shoulder Impingement?

Shoulder impingement is thought to occur when the tendons or bursa in the shoulder become pinched or irritated, often during overhead movements. The space between the upper arm bone (humerus) and the acromion (part of the shoulder blade) narrows, causing friction on the rotator cuff tendons or bursa. This impingement leads to pain, inflammation, and limited movement, especially during activities that require raising the arm above shoulder level (like reaching, lifting, or throwing).

But is it…?

People’s Perceptions: The Myths and Misunderstandings of Shoulder Impingement

When people hear the term “shoulder impingement,” they often picture a simple, mechanical issue: a pinched tissue that needs to be “fixed.”

But the reality is much more nuanced.

Here are some common misconceptions and the truths behind them:

Myth 1: Shoulder Impingement is Always Caused by “Pinching”

The common belief is that shoulder impingement happens because something in the shoulder joint gets physically “pinched” during movement. While this can be true in some cases, many healthcare professionals are now recognizing that the term “impingement” may be more of a symptom than a true diagnosis. In other words, while narrowing of the subacromial space can occur, impingement doesn’t always lead to pain or functional problems.

Research by Harner & Klein (1991) suggests that inflammation or irritation of tissue from poor movement patterns, muscle imbalances, or poor posture can contribute to impingement-like symptoms without there being any actual pinching or structural compromise. For some people, what appears to be impingement on a scan might not align with their symptoms.

Notice that was in 1991. We are in 2025, it is time to think differently.

Myth 2: Surgery is the Only Solution for Shoulder Impingement

Many individuals with shoulder impingement syndrome are told that their only option is surgery to “clean up” or ‘open up space’ for the shoulder tissues to move freely. While surgery can be necessary in some cases, shoulder impingement syndrome can recover without the need for surgery. In fact, physiotherapy and non-invasive treatments like manual therapy, specific shoulder exercise and activity modification lead to a full recovery and pain free shoulder.

Many people also mistakenly believe that rest and pain medications will solve their shoulder impingement problem, but addressing underlying muscle imbalances, posture, or joint dysfunction through physiotherapy is far more effective in the long term.

Myth 3: Shoulder Impingement is Just for Athletes

While it’s true that athletes—particularly those in sports that involve repetitive overhead movements—are at a higher risk, shoulder impingement can affect anyone, even those who aren’t active. Office workers, for instance, may develop shoulder impingement due to poor posture, prolonged sitting, and improper ergonomic setups. Over time, these factors can lead to muscle weakness, tightness, and poor mechanics that contribute to impingement symptoms.

Is Impingement Really Impingement?

The question that arises from all of this is: is impingement truly “impingement,” or are we mislabeling a variety of shoulder issues as impingement syndrome?

As research evolves, many physiotherapists and orthopedic specialists are rethinking the traditional view of shoulder impingement. Instead of viewing it as a single, mechanical condition, it’s now seen as part of a spectrum of shoulder dysfunctions. Impingement is often a collection of factors, including:

Rotator cuff weakness
Scapular dyskinesis (poor shoulder blade movement)
Tightness or stiffness in the shoulder joint capsule
Postural issues
Overuse or improper movement patterns

Because impingement is a multifactorial problem, focusing on just one aspect (like “pinching” or structural issues) may not be enough to effectively treat it.

Many people diagnosed with impingement have no actual structural abnormality on imaging but still experience pain due to other contributing factors.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Shoulder Impingement?

If you’re experiencing shoulder pain or discomfort that may be linked to impingement, here’s what you can do:

1. See a Physiotherapist: One of our physiotherapists at Fighting Fit can evaluate your shoulder’s movement patterns, muscle strength, and posture to help identify the root cause of your shoulder pain and impingement symptoms. They can design a personalized treatment plan, including strengthening exercises, manual therapy, and even stretching to improve shoulder function.

2. Work on Posture and Ergonomics: Often, posture and improper ergonomics contribute significantly to shoulder impingement. Correcting slouching, rounding of the shoulders, and assisting with reaching and lifting techniques can take stress off the shoulder joint.

3. Strengthen the Rotator Cuff and Scapular Muscles: Weak rotator cuff muscles or poor shoulder blade control are common contributors to impingement. Exercises like external rotations, scapular squeezes, and reverse flys can help strengthen these muscles and improve shoulder stability. However, if you are just doing these exercises without proper assessment is probably useless!

4. Don’t Rush Into Surgery: While surgery can sometimes be necessary (particularly in cases of severe structural damage, trauma or abnormaility), it’s often a last resort. Most people with shoulder impingement benefit from conservative or non-operative treatments such as physiotherapy, activity modifications, and lifestyle changes.

Final Thoughts: Rethinking Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder impingement is a common but complex condition that may not be as simple as “pinching” or “mechanical failure” in the shoulder. Understanding that impingement can result from a combination of factors—including muscle imbalances, poor posture, and improper movement patterns—can lead to more effective treatments and better outcomes.

If you’re dealing with shoulder pain, don’t be discouraged by a diagnosis of impingement. With the right approach and a focus on rehabilitation, most people can experience significant relief and return to their daily activities, pain-free.

By challenging outdated beliefs and embracing a more holistic approach to shoulder health, we can help you get back to doing what you love, without the pain or limitations that come with shoulder impingement.

Karolina Bejmert

Karolina is Polish-Canadian who moved to Australia in 2022 to live her dream and study physiotherapy.

She graduated from Bond University in June 2024.

Before that she studied at Queen’s University where she got her bachelor oof science specializing in Kinesiology.

With almost 5 years of experience working as a sports trainer in various sports and the Royal Military College of Canada.

Karolina enjoys the simple pleasures in life – reading, painting, hiking and travel. She is a player of many sports (but a master of none according toher) including American football, volleyball and rowing.

Karolina is overjoyed to be starting her career at Fighting Fit and we are excited for what the future has in store!

Brenda Samosa

05:52 07 Nov 24

I had a really bad shoulder and had been seeing a different physio for 3 months (from a different place) I got told Tyson was good. After just a few sessions the movement was coming back. I’m 66 and was worried I would have to stop surfing. But with a lot of help from Tyson I’m back in the waves ( thank you so so much)

Cyana Ferguson

08:16 30 Oct 24

Steve Harris

22:33 15 Oct 24

Great team, all friendly, super helpful and first class clinical advice and a big shout out to my Physio Noah with my shoulder issue

Andrea Bell

05:33 19 Sep 24

These guys are the best in the biz 🎉

Ryan Brockett

04:20 18 Sep 24

Shout out to Max from fighting fit physio. He helped me out massively straight after shoulder surgery and back into work and sports in no time. Couldn’t recommend anyone better!

Scotty

08:31 31 Jul 24

Five star service from Max & the team!
Professional & very thorough, you know that patient outcomes are of the highest priority.
I highly recommend this business.

Riley Wilson

08:27 14 Jul 24

Be AWARE they’ll immediately try to commit you to multiple follow up sessions after your initial consultation. This happened to me and then I later found out that as it just so happens, they have a cancellation policy that says you have to pay 100% of the consultation fee for cancelling. They failed to tell me this when they were pushy in committing me to 6 sessions after my consult, so that was a really nice little surprise.

I was already uncomfortable with how pushy they were in having me commit to so many sessions, so when I heard about the policy I just cancelled all together. So, I can’t speak further to the quality of their service throughout therapy phase. FYI this was also a few months ago now, it’s possible (though unlikely) they may have changed the policy. Just ask the question.

Megan Shelley

06:51 03 May 24

Fighting Fit Physiotherapy is hands down the best physio I've encountered. Having tried multiple physios for various injuries, I always find myself coming back to them. Their expertise consistently exceeds expectations, helping me get back to my sport faster than I thought possible. Their personalized approach and attention to detail make all the difference. I could not recommend a better or more exceptional physio team!

Gina Matthews

08:41 24 Mar 23

Can't recommend this place high enough. I was in so much pain with my knee an had been for months through advise an exercises I'm now looking forward to returning to gym an back riding my horses in endurance thank you so much

Courtney Halse

01:36 29 Nov 22

Kyle was knowledgeable, personable and professional. He saw me through my second pregnancy and continued to work with me until 6 months post partum on issues with my back. Would recommend anyone to go and see him.

Also shout out to Georgia on the front desk. She makes you feel welcome and brings a sense of warmth to the place!

Alli Davenport

08:07 04 Nov 22

After hip replacement surgery in February I wanted toget back into weight training legs, I started with Mitch 18 weeks ago and after a lot of hard work and sweat I am able to safely train again, I cannot thank Mitch enough for his support,encouragement and knowledge. The staff are friendly and helpful and I always looked forward to my session's

Robert Parkinson

10:50 15 Aug 22

This is the second time I have been treated by the team at FFP.
As a health professional myself I have been impressed with the level of care I have received from all members of the team.
The personalised treatment and rehabilitation programs have produced excellent results and I have completed both programs pain free and feeling stronger than before my injuries.
During the program there was constant communication and follow up and they were very accommodating with my work schedule.
All in all it was a very holistic experience and I would highly recommend the service.

Kiri Canavan

07:30 08 Jun 22

Tyson was amazing! We came up with an 8 week plan at my first consultation with weekly check ins and updates to exercises. 8 weeks later, I am pain free and able to train harder than ever. Highly recommend and the staff are all fantastic and super accomodating!

Myth 1: Shoulder Impingement is Always Caused by “Pinching”

Myth 2: Surgery is the Only Solution for Shoulder Impingement

Myth 3: Shoulder Impingement is Just for Athletes

Is Impingement Really Impingement?

What Should You Do If You Suspect Shoulder Impingement?

The Desk Worker’s Guide to a Pain-Free Neck

Hip Osteoarthritis: Why It Hurts and How Physio Can Help

The #1 Mistake Athletes Make After an Ankle Injury

The Secret to Beating Back Pain? Walk This Way!

OPENING HOURS

HELPFUL PAGES

OPENING HOURS

HELPFUL PAGES

Our GOLD COAST PHYSIO Location

HELPFUL PAGES

fighting fit
physiotherapy

call 0402 938 661

fighting fit
physiotherapy

call 0402 938 661

OUR SERVICES

OPENING HOURS

Monday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Tuesday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Wednesday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Thursday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Friday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Saturday			CLOSED
Sunday			CLOSED

Monday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Tuesday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Wednesday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Thursday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Friday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Saturday			CLOSED
Sunday			CLOSED

Monday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Tuesday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Wednesday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Thursday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Friday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Saturday			CLOSED
Sunday			CLOSED

Monday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Tuesday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Wednesday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Thursday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Friday	6:30am	–	8:00pm
Saturday			CLOSED
Sunday			CLOSED