Rotator cuff impingement has a number of different causes.
It can bring about a variety of rotator cuff damage such as a rotator cuff tendon tear.
This is an explanation of the reasons why impingement occurs and what can be done about it.
Impingement is the squashing of the tendons within the shoulder joint.
There are a number of different, potential causes A number of the factors that lead to impingement are totally outside anyone's control.
There are a range of things in the shoulder joint that can cause difficulties.
It is important to realise that absolutely anything that reduces the space available in the shoulder may lead to impingement.
Acromion types There are three distinct types of acromion.

1. Type I acromion, which is flat, is the "normal", most commonly occurring, acromion.
   
2. Type II acromion is more curved and downward dipping,
3. Type III acromion is hooked and downward dipping.
   

The more hooked or dipping the acronium; the further it obstructs the outlet for the rotator cuff muscles.
Studies have revealed, not surprisingly, an increased occurrence of impingement in those with type II and type III acromions.
Other potential causes of rotator cuff impingement

1. Another significant factor can be a subacromial spur.
   A subacromial spur is just a bone spur on the base of the acromion.
   Any defect that reduces the opening between the humerus and the acromion can result in impingement.
   
2. Having a thick subacromial bursa can cause impingement and rotator cuff pain.
   The bursa is in place to reduce friction and allow the tendons to move freely.
   If it is too thick it reduces the space available to the tendons.
   
3. The most important factor in impingement is the health of the cuff muscles.
   

Shoulder stability is critical.
Having a strong, healthy cuff that will hold the humerus head firmly in position will help to avoid impingement, in spite of any of these other factors.
Impingement - break the cycle There is, with impingement, an almost self fulfilling cycle.
This cycle is repeated over and over again.

1. Impingement leads to cuff damage.
   
2. The weakened cuff muscles develop tendinitis or possibly a rotator cuff tendon tear.
   
3. You suffer pain and discomfort.
   

This is an all too common fact but why does it happen that way? Well, if something hurts then we are less likely to use it.
But by not using our shoulders, not exercising and strengthening, we can actually make matters worse.
How is it made worse? Think about it like this.
You have pain from impingement.
Consequently you don't use the shoulder as much or exercise regularly.
This results in the muscles becoming gradually weakened.
The effect of this gradual weakening is that the shoulder muscles lose the ability to hold the humerus firmly in place.
As a result the humerus is able to "ride up".
This increases any rotator cuff impingement that may have been present.
This causes more pain and begins to reinforce the cycle.
Repeated gradually over time the effects can be all too painful.
Take action now to strengthen your shoulder.