Shoulder Impingement Treatment in Haddington & East Lothian (Subacromial Pain Syndrome / Pain Lifting the Arm)
If you feel pain when lifting your arm, reaching overhead, lying on your shoulder, or performing gym or work activities, you may be experiencing shoulder impingement, also known as Subacromial Pain Syndrome.
This condition is extremely common — and highly treatable with the right physiotherapy plan.
At County Physio in Haddington, we specialise in diagnosing and treating shoulder impingement using hands-on treatment, strengthening, mobility restoration, and targeted rehabilitation.
What Is Shoulder Impingement?
Shoulder impingement happens when the tendons or bursa in the subacromial space (the space under the top of your shoulder) become irritated and painful, especially with lifting and reaching.
It is often linked to:
Rotator cuff irritation
Bursitis
Poor shoulder blade control
Tight chest or neck muscles
Posture issues
Overuse or repetitive lifting
Physiotherapy is the gold-standard treatment.
Common Symptoms of shoulder impingement
You may have shoulder impingement if you experience:
Pain when lifting your arm above shoulder height
Pain putting on shirts or jackets
Pain reaching behind the back
Pain lying on the affected shoulder
Sharp catching pain with movement
Weakness or heaviness in the arm
Pain during gym exercises (pressing, overhead lifts)
Pain that worsens with repetition or fatigue
Symptoms typically worsen with overhead activities and improve with rest — but often return without proper rehabilitation.
What Causes shoulder impingement?
Shoulder impingement is usually caused by a combination of:
✔ Rotator cuff weakness
✔ Shoulder blade (scapular) dysfunction
✔ Tight chest muscles
✔ Poor posture (desk work, laptop use)
✔ Overuse or repetitive overhead movement
✔ Weak stabilising muscles
✔ Inflammation of the bursa (bursitis)
✔ Previous shoulder injuries
Without proper treatment, the rotator cuff and bursa can remain irritated and painful.
How Physiotherapy Helps Shoulder Impigement
We use a proven step-by-step approach to reduce pain and restore full shoulder function.
Comprehensive Assessment & Diagnosis
We assess: Shoulder range of motion, Rotator cuff strength, Scapular movement, Posture and daily habits, Muscle tension patterns, Which structures are irritated, You’ll receive a clear explanation of exactly why your shoulder hurts.
Hands-On Physiotherapy
To reduce pain and restore movement, we use: Shoulder joint mobilisation, Scapular mobilisation, Soft tissue and trigger point release, Rotator cuff unloading techniques, Dry needling / acupuncture (optional), Electrotherapy (TENS or ultrasound when appropriate), These techniques ease irritation and speed up recovery.
Targeted Rotator Cuff Strengthening
Strengthening is essential for long-term results. We focus on: External rotation strengthening, Internal rotation strengthening, Scapular stabilisation, Postural muscle activation, Gradual loading of irritated tendons, This improves shoulder mechanics and prevents recurrence.
Restoring Mobility & Movement Control
Includes: Stretching tight chest and neck muscles, Improving thoracic (upper back) mobility, Shoulder blade control exercises, Improving overhead movement patterns, Small changes in movement create big changes in pain.
Activity, Gym & Work Modifications
We help you adjust: overhead movements pressing exercises lifting techniques workstation posture sleep positions This reduces irritation while you rebuild strength.
Do I Have Shoulder Impingement or Something Else?
Shoulder impingement symptoms overlap with:
Rotator cuff tendinopathy
Rotator cuff tear
Bursitis
Frozen shoulder
AC joint pain
Your assessment will identify the exact cause and direct the correct treatment.
Do I Need an Injection or Scan?
Usually no.
Scans are only recommended if:
There was trauma
Severe weakness is present
Symptoms don’t improve over time
Steroid injections can help reduce inflammation in some cases but are most effective when combined with physiotherapy, not used alone.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Most people improve within:
4–8 weeks for mild cases
8–12 weeks for moderate cases
Long-standing or severe cases may take longer, but still respond well
Consistency is key — guided strengthening provides long-term results.
Who Is This Treatment For?
This treatment is ideal if you:
Feel pain lifting or reaching overhead
Have pain lying on your shoulder at night
Struggle with reaching behind your back
Feel weakness or catching in your shoulder
Want to avoid injections or surgery
Want a long-term solution, not temporary relief
No GP referral is needed.
Why Choose County Physio?
Shoulder specialists with extensive experience
Hands-on treatment included in your session
Clear, personalised rehabilitation plans
Calm, friendly, supportive environment
Modern clinic serving all of East Lothian
Focus on long-term results and full recovery
We help you move confidently, pain-free, and without limitations.
FAQ(Frequently Asked Questions)
Does shoulder impingement go away on its own?
Sometimes, but without strengthening it often returns. Physiotherapy is the most effective long-term solution.
Is shoulder impingement serious?
Usually no — it’s very treatable, but ignoring it can lead to worsening tendon irritation.
Can I keep training at the gym?
Yes, with modifications. We’ll tell you which movements to avoid temporarily.
Is surgery needed for shoulder impingement?
Almost never. Physiotherapy is highly effective for the vast majority of people.
Why does my shoulder hurt more at night?
Inflamed or irritated tendons are often painful when compressed during sleep.
Book Your Shoulder Impingement Assessment Today
If lifting, reaching or sleeping on your shoulder has become painful, the right treatment can help you recover quickly and safely.
Further Reading on Shoulder Pain
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