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Writer's pictureKilo Chiropractic and Sports Medicine

Biceps and Supraspinatus Impingement

What is biceps tendon impingement?

Biceps tendon impingement occurs when the long head of the biceps tendon is compressed or pinched between the bones in the shoulder joint. This can lead to pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the affected shoulder.


What are the symptoms of biceps tendon impingement?

The symptoms of biceps tendon impingement can vary, but they often include:

  • Pain or tenderness in the front of the shoulder or upper arm

  • Weakness or loss of strength in the affected arm

  • Clicking or popping sounds when moving the shoulder

  • Limited range of motion in the shoulder joint



What causes biceps tendon impingement?

Biceps tendon impingement can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Overuse or repetitive stress on the shoulder joint

  • Shoulder instability or weakness

  • Shoulder joint degeneration or arthritis

  • Structural abnormalities in the shoulder joint

  • Immobility of the thoracic spine


What is supraspinatus impingement?

Supraspinatus impingement occurs when the supraspinatus tendon, which helps to stabilize the shoulder joint, is compressed or pinched between the bones in the shoulder. This can cause pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the affected shoulder.


What are the symptoms of supraspinatus impingement?

The symptoms of supraspinatus impingement can vary, but they often include:

  • Pain or tenderness in the shoulder, especially when reaching overhead or across the body

  • Weakness or loss of strength in the affected arm

  • Limited range of motion in the shoulder joint

  • Clicking or popping sounds when moving the shoulder


What causes supraspinatus impingement?

Supraspinatus impingement can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Overuse or repetitive stress on the shoulder joint

  • Shoulder instability or weakness

  • Shoulder joint degeneration or arthritis

  • Structural abnormalities in the shoulder joint

  • Immobility of the thoracic spine


How are biceps tendon and supraspinatus impingement diagnosed?

If you think you may have biceps tendon or supraspinatus impingement, your healthcare provider will likely perform a comprehensive history and physical exam. They may also order imaging tests, such as X-rays, diagnostic ultrasound or an MRI, to help confirm the diagnosis.


How are biceps tendon and supraspinatus impingement treated?

Treatment for biceps tendon and supraspinatus impingement will depend on the severity and underlying cause of your symptoms. In many cases, self-care measures can help alleviate pain and discomfort, such as:

  • Protecting the injured shoulder initially

  • Optimally loading the tissues involved

  • Dry needling to decrease muscle hypertonicity and promote blood flow to the tendons

  • Chiropractic adjustments to the thoracic spine and mobilizations to the shoulder girdle to increase ROM

  • Other physiological therapeutic like class iv laser, or shock wave therapy to promote tissue healing



Information on this website is for general informational purposes and should not be considered medical advice. It is not intended for the purpose of diagnosis, and no doctor-patient relationship is formed. Always consult with your physician or other qualified health professionals regarding your medical condition.

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