Impingement syndrome of the shoulder is a condition that usually affects people who perform overhead activities in work or recreation. These activities include things such as painting, tennis, throwing or any other movement that requires the arm to rotate above the head with force.

There are many ways to treat the syndrome that are often successful. Workers compensation pain management doctors have a plethora of options to help individuals get back to work and achieve pain relief.

Impingement syndrome surgery can be avoided by doing these top five things:

1. Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Anti-inflammatory medications are the most common and most successful ways to treat impingement syndrome of the shoulder. Over the counter medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen are great for reducing pain and swelling. If the over the counter versions of these medications are not strong enough, your health care professional can prescribe a prescription for stronger doses.

2. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can be used in conjunction with anti-inflammatory medications. It helps to relieve pain and inflammation as well as prevent muscle weakness that comes from inactivity. By simply and carefully reaching your thumb to the middle of your back, the shoulder joint is stretched and the gliding motion helps to return mobilization in the shoulder. There are more complex activities that also help with mobility and should be demonstrated by a physical therapy specialist.

3. Heat and Ice

Heat and ice also help with the healing process. A warm shower in the morning is a good way to loosen up the muscle and tendon while increasing blood flow in the affected area. Ice is used to help ease the inflammation. Used together, heat and ice can help reduce the swelling and the pain associated with the syndrome.

4. Cortisone Injections

When anti-inflammatory medications are not working on their own, cortisone injections are administered by your pain care provider. These injections affect the precise area of pain and provide relief immediately. They also help to reduce the inflammation in the sub-acromial space known as the shoulder joint.

5. Rest

The best medicine for impingement syndrome of the shoulder is rest. Once your condition has been diagnosed, resting the injury is essential for recovery. By resting the shoulder, the tissues heal more quickly and pain management can be accelerated. Although resting the shoulder is very important, exercise is still recommended. Overhead movements of the arms should be avoided; however, cardiovascular activities will continue to help the body repair itself.

There are additional measures you can take to help avoid surgery, in addition to these five basics. Eating well and adding omega-3 fatty acids into your diet can be helpful. Avoid weight gain, as this tends to put more stress onto the body. Acupuncture is another way to offer relief for muscle and tendon conditions.

Surgery for impingement syndrome can be avoided in over 90 percent of patients who suffer from the ailment when these top five treatments are followed. However, prior to beginning your treatment, it is important to consult a medical doctor to properly diagnose the pain you are experiencing.