Precision Diagnosis & Modern Treatment for Shoulder Impingement in the South Bay

Shoulder impingement and bursitis are among the most common causes of shoulder pain, especially in active individuals and those who perform frequent overhead movements. While these conditions are highly treatable, an accurate diagnosis is essential to prevent chronic inflammation or progression to rotator cuff injury.

 

At Modern Orthopedics, we provide a comprehensive, surgeon-led evaluation to determine the exact source of pain and create a personalized plan focused on restoring comfort, mobility, and long-term shoulder health.

 

What Is Shoulder Impingement?

 

Shoulder impingement occurs when the rotator cuff tendons or the subacromial bursa become pinched between the top of the humerus and the acromion during arm elevation.

Over time, this repeated friction can lead to:

• Tendon inflammation

• Bursitis

• Painful arc of motion

• Weakness or reduced endurance

 

Impingement often develops gradually but may also follow overuse or minor trauma.

 

Common Symptoms

• Sharp or aching pain when lifting the arm

• Painful arc between 60°–120° of elevation

• Night pain, especially when lying on the affected shoulder

• Weakness or fatigue with repeated overhead motions

• Clicking or popping sensations

• Pain with reaching behind the body

 

Concierge Evaluation at Modern Orthopedics

 

Your assessment includes:

• Detailed physical examination by Dr. Barrett

• Review of prior imaging and diagnostic clarification

• High-resolution ultrasound (when appropriate)

• Identification of rotator cuff involvement or bursitis

We determine whether symptoms are due to isolated impingement, tendon inflammation, or early rotator cuff pathology—ensuring treatment is precise and effective.

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Non-Surgical Management (First-Line)

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Most patients experience significant relief with:

• Targeted physical therapy

• Rotator cuff and scapular strengthening

• Activity modification

• Anti-inflammatory strategies

• Ultrasound-guided subacromial injections

 

Non-operative treatment is often highly successful when applied early.

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Surgical Treatments:

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Arthroscopic Subacromial Decompression (When Needed)

 

A minimally invasive procedure may be recommended for patients with persistent symptoms or structural causes of impingement.

The surgery involves:

• Removing inflamed bursal tissue

• Contouring the acromion when appropriate

• Creating more room for the rotator cuff to glide without irritation

This approach allows for accelerated recovery with minimal downtime.

 

Recovery Expectations

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• Most non-surgical patients improve within several weeks

• Surgical patients typically return to full activity within 8–12 weeks

• Physical therapy plays a key role in restoring smooth, pain-free motion

 

Schedule Same-Week Evaluation

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Serving patients across Cupertino, Los Gatos, Campbell, Saratoga, and South San Jose.

📅 Same-week appointments available
📞 Call: 408-353-0203