Causes

A shoulder impingement syndrome is commonly observed in young athletes and ageing individuals. It can arise from a trauma, such as a fall on the shoulder, as well as shoulder overuse due to repetitive overhead movement in either work or sport. Chronic inflammation of the bursa (bursitis) and/or tendons of the rotator cuff (tendonitis) can lead to the rupture of one or multiple tendons of the rotator cuff. Additional causes for a shoulder impingement syndrome include shoulder instability, shoulder stiffness, weakness of shoulder muscles, prolonged period of incorrect posture and inadequate physical activity.