Understanding Shoulder Pain & Subacromial Impingement Syndrome (SIS)

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.

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, and targeted rehabilitation exercises—are highly recommended.

At Connecticut Disc and Laser Therapy Centers, we specialize in non-invasive treatments that restore shoulder function, reduce pain, and 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 & 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. Storz Shockwave Therapy for SIS & Rotator Cuff Pain

Storz Shockwave Therapy uses high-frequency acoustic waves to break down scar tissue, stimulate blood flow, and promote tissue repair in shoulder impingement patients.

📌 How Shockwave Therapy Helps SIS:
✔️ Breaks up adhesions and scar tissue
✔️ Stimulates collagen production for tendon repair
✔️ Reduces pain and stiffness in the rotator cuff

A 2020 study found that shockwave therapy significantly improves function in patients with chronic shoulder pain.

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 eliminate pain.

📞 Call us today at 203-456-9299 or schedule your appointment online at schedule.ctdisccenters.com!

Related Articles:

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