Sep '24 • General discussion
Joint Impingement, A Common Structural Issue
Understanding Joint Impingements: What You Need to Know
A joint impingement occurs when a joint is held out of its optimal position, often due to muscular imbalances or restrictions in the connective tissue. While this misalignment is usually correctable, if left untreated, it can lead to more serious damage over time, such as deterioration of the joint capsule or even herniation and bulging of spinal discs. These more severe issues are preventable if the impingement is addressed early on.
Joint impingements can arise from direct injury, like a heavy impact that forces the joint out of place, leading to immediate structural damage. However, it’s more common for joint discomfort to develop without any obvious cause, often due to excessive tension in the muscles or connective tissues. When muscles become hypertonic, they can hold the joint out of its natural position, causing dysfunction and inflammation, this can lead to several issues long term. This issue is more common than most realize because many people don’t fully understand the causes of inflammation or recognize the subtle signs of restricted mobility in the affected area.
If left uncorrected, chronic impingements can alter the biomechanics of the joint, leading to compensatory movement patterns that put additional stress on other parts of the body. This can create a ripple effect, where one misalignment leads to another, eventually causing widespread discomfort or injury. For example, a hip impingement might lead to knee pain or lower back issues as the body tries to compensate for the limited range of motion.
To address a joint impingement, it’s essential first to release the dense tissue around the joint. Using tools like a lacrosse ball, softball, baseball, or foam sphere, you can roll out these areas to identify where the inflammation is present. Pain during rolling is a clear indicator that the area needs to be released. Once you’ve spent some time daily performing the 4-step release method, the next step is to restore mobility to the restricted muscles and tissues. Lengthening these tight muscles is crucial to returning the joint to its proper alignment. After releasing the area and restoring muscle length, the joint’s mechanics must be retrained. This involves teaching the nervous system to properly activate and recruit the area, ensuring smooth and efficient movement and preventing the impingement from recurring.
By understanding joint impingements and how to address them, you can significantly improve your overall structural health. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, following these steps can make a substantial difference. Please don’t hesitate to ask questions or share your experiences in the comments below.
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Joint Impingement, A Common Structural Issue
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