Final answer:
Correcting impingement syndrome often involves arthroscopic surgery to relieve pressure on the rotator cuff, which may be supplemented by physical therapy to aid recovery. This minimally invasive surgery reduces the recovery time, allowing for a prompt return to activity.
Step-by-step explanation:
To correct impingement syndrome, a condition often seen in athletes who participate in overhead sports, an arthroscopic surgery can be performed. This minimally invasive procedure involves making a small incision and inserting an arthroscope to visualize the joint.
Through additional tiny incisions, surgical instruments are introduced to remove bone spurs or inflamed tissue that might be causing the impingement.
This relieves the pressure on the rotator cuff tendons and muscles, which can decrease pain and improve function. Prior to considering surgery, however, an appropriate physical therapy plan is typically recommended.
A physical therapist may use heat packs, instruct the patient in rehabilitative exercises, and use icing to reduce inflammation. If the condition persists and is severe, surgical intervention is considered.
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in recovery from impingement syndrome.
After the surgery, a patient will usually undergo a course of physical therapy to restore range of motion, strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint, and return to normal levels of physical activity.
The goal of the therapy is to heal the shoulder and regain its proper function, with an exit exam to document the improvement.
The benefit of such a procedure is a rapid recovery and return to sports or daily activities.