Shoulder impingement syndrome is a common cause of shoulder pain. Pain is usually felt in the front or sides of the shoulder but can sometimes be felt in the back of the shoulder as well.
Shoulder impingement often times involves the supraspinatus muscle of the rotator cuff becoming inflamed either due to trauma, repetitive stress or even poor posture. As we reach overhead the inflamed tendon lacks space to glide properly hence causing pain.
Here are 3 simple at home tests you can do to determine if your shoulder pain is due to impingement syndrome.
1️⃣ Place hand of painful shoulder on opposite shoulder. Lift your elbow off of your chest. Pain in your shoulder is a positive test and may indicate impingement syndrome.
2️⃣ EMPTY CAN TEST - With elbow extended point your thumb down and place arm at your side. Lift up at a 45 degree angle to shoulder height. Pain is a positive sign for impingement. If no pain apply resistance straight down with opposite hand. Pain is positive for impingement.
3️⃣HAWKINS-KENNEDY TEST - Bend elbow to 90 degrees. Lift arm to shoulder height. Place unaffected arm on top of the other forearm. Gently pull up on the elbow and push down on the hand causing internal rotation of the affected side. Slowly bring the arm across your body. If there’s pain that’s considered a positive test.
TRY IT!
✅This is only a screening for impingement. At least two of the 3 tests should be positive. Later this week I will give you some exercises options for relief!
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