Understanding Shoulder Pain & Subacromial Impingement Syndrome (SIS)

August 03, 2020•4 min read

Shoulder pain is an extremely common issue, especially among individuals over 40 years old. Studies estimate that 16% to 30% of the population experiences shoulder pain at any given time, with subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS) being one of the most frequently diagnosed conditions.

A detailed medical illustration showing the anatomy of the shoulder joint, highlighting the rotator cuff tendons, subacromial bursa, and acromion, with an overlay to indicate the area of impingement and inflammation typical of Subacromial Impingement Syndrome.

Why Is Subacromial Impingement Syndrome (SIS) So Common?

The shoulder joint is designed for a wide range of motion, but this comes at the cost of reduced stability. Several factors can increase the risk of SIS, including:

Aging – Natural wear and tear weakens shoulder structures.
Repetitive overhead activities – Common in jobs requiring overhead work and sports like swimming or tennis.
Microtrauma & hypoxia (lack of oxygen) – Leads to degeneration of the rotator cuff tendons.
Acromion shape – A hooked (Type III) acromion can increase impingement risk.
Bone spurs & calcified ligaments – Cause additional friction and pinching in the shoulder.

These factors can damage the rotator cuff tendons, eventually leading to muscle tendon rupture (partial or complete). As the humeral head (ball of the joint) moves upward, it pinches the subacromial bursa, leading to inflammation, bursitis, and pain—especially when raising the arm.

📌 Common SIS Symptoms Include:

Pain when raising the arm overhead
Discomfort when lying on the affected shoulder
Difficulty finding a comfortable sleeping position
Limited mobility due to pain and weakness

How Is SIS Diagnosed?

A combination of history, physical examination, and imaging (X-ray, MRI, CT scan, or ultrasound) is used to accurately diagnose SIS and differentiate it from other shoulder conditions like rotator cuff tears, bone spurs, or arthritis.

Non-Surgical Treatment for SIS: A Multi-Modal Approach

A 2019 review of previously published studies concluded that surgery offers little benefit for middle-aged SIS patients. Instead, non-surgical treatments—such as chiropractic care, laser therapy, High Energy Inductive Therapy (the EmField Pro), and targeted rehabilitation exercises—are highly recommended.

At Connecticut Disc and Laser Therapy Centers, we specialize in non-invasive treatments that help restore shoulder function, reduce pain, and may prevent the need for surgery.

1. Chiropractic Adjustments & Manual Therapy

Chiropractic care can help restore shoulder joint mobility and improve overall biomechanics.

📌 Chiropractic Techniques for SIS Include:

Joint manipulation & mobilization to restore shoulder movement
Soft tissue therapy to reduce muscle tightness and inflammation
Postural corrections to reduce strain on the shoulder

A 2021 study found that chiropractic adjustments improve range of motion and reduce pain in shoulder impingement patients.

2. MLS Laser Therapy for Shoulder Pain Relief

MLS Laser Therapy is a non-invasive, FDA-cleared treatment that accelerates healing and reduces inflammation in SIS patients.

📌 Benefits of MLS Laser Therapy for SIS:

Reduces shoulder pain and swelling
Accelerates tendon and bursa healing
Improves range of motion without medication

A clinical study confirmed that MLS Laser Therapy significantly reduces pain and improves mobility in rotator cuff and shoulder impingement patients.

3. High Energy Inductive Therapy (EmField Pro) for SIS & Rotator Cuff Pain

High Energy Inductive Therapy with the EmField Pro uses powerful electromagnetic fields to stimulate deep tissues, enhance blood flow, and support tissue repair in shoulder impingement patients.

📌 How High Energy Inductive Therapy Helps SIS:

Helps reduce adhesions and chronic soft tissue irritation
Stimulates cellular activity to support tendon repair
Reduces pain and stiffness in the rotator cuff region

Emerging clinical evidence suggests that High Energy Inductive Therapy can improve function and reduce pain in patients with chronic shoulder conditions when combined with a structured rehabilitation program.

4. Targeted Exercise Rehabilitation for SIS

A structured rehabilitation program is critical for correcting the high position of the humeral head and restoring full range of motion.

📌 Key Exercises Include:

Rotator cuff strengthening exercises
Scapular stabilization drills
Shoulder mobility and stretching routines

A consistent home exercise program is essential, and progress may take 3–6 months.

5. Physical Therapy Modalities for Pain Relief

At Connecticut Disc and Laser Therapy Centers, we utilize additional physical therapy modalities to reduce inflammation and promote healing, including:

Cold Therapy (Ice) & Electrical Stimulation – Reduces pain and swelling.
Ultrasound Therapy – Improves tissue healing.
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) Therapy – Stimulates cellular repair.

Get Relief from Shoulder Pain & SIS Today!

If you’re experiencing shoulder pain, rotator cuff weakness, or difficulty with overhead movements, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. At Connecticut Disc and Laser Therapy Centers, we offer advanced, non-surgical treatments designed to restore shoulder function and reduce pain.

📞 Call us today at 203-922-9277 or schedule your appointment online at schedule.ctdisccenters.com!

📖 How MLS Laser Therapy Relieves Shoulder Pain
📖 High Energy Inductive Therapy for Rotator Cuff & Shoulder Injuries
📖 Chiropractic Care for Shoulder & Joint Pain

Dr. James J. Dalfino

Dr. James J. Dalfino is the president and clinic director of Connecticut Disc and Laser Therapy Centers in Shelton, CT. He has over 25 years experience treating chronic conditions from neck and lower back pain, shoulder and knee pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, hip pain, and plantar fasciitis, to name a few.

Back to Blog