Many shoulder impingement cases respond to conservative management. This remains the first-line approach for many patients.
- Activity Modification: Identifying and temporarily avoiding aggravating movements allows inflammation to settle. This doesn’t mean complete rest. Rather, it involves intelligent modification of activities that cause impingement.
- Physiotherapy: A structured rehabilitation programme forms the cornerstone of conservative treatment. Physiotherapy addresses muscle imbalances, improves posture, and strengthens the rotator cuff and scapular stabilisers. Exercises progress from gentle range-of-motion work to strengthening and functional training.
- Anti-inflammatory Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation during the acute phase. These medications work when combined with other treatment modalities.
- Corticosteroid Injections: For significant inflammation, a subacromial corticosteroid injection can provide relief. This injection delivers anti-inflammatory medication directly to the affected area. It can reduce swelling and create a window for physiotherapy.