Treatment of Shoulder Impingement Using LLLT/PBMT
Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) also known as Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMt) is the application of red and near infrared light over injuries to stimulate cellular repair. LLLT is highly effective, completely safe treatment in Melbourne, Victoria. It is painless, and has no effect on normal tissues. LLLT treats the underlying cause of the injury unlike pain medication which just masks the pain. It is a treatment modality supported by research from reputable institutions including Harvard University and NASA. LLLT is an evidence-based therapy for soft tissue injuries, such as shoulder impingement.
Gentle. Drug-Free. Clinically Proven
Key Points
- Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons or bursa in the shoulder become compressed during arm movements, particularly overhead, leading to pain and inflammation.
- It commonly affects the supraspinatus tendon and subacromial bursa, where they get “pinched” between the humeral head and acromion during movement.
- Causes include repetitive overhead activity, poor posture, rotator cuff weakness, and age-related changes or bony spurs narrowing the subacromial space.
- Symptoms include pain during overhead motion, night pain, stiffness, weakness, and a catching or clicking sensation in the shoulder.
- Impingement can coexist with tendonitis, bursitis, or partial rotator cuff tears, and requires thorough assessment to confirm the diagnosis.
- Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), also termed Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT), is a non-invasive, clinically proven approach that reduces inflammation, promotes healing, and supports tissue recovery – especially useful when pain limits movement and rehabilitation.
- Unlike cortisone or PRP injections, LLLT promotes healing at the cellular level without drugs or invasive procedures.
- Treatment is medically supervised by Dr Shikha Parmar, GP with a special interest in musculoskeletal conditions, through a structured six-week program.
- Backed by over 700 randomised trials and 7,000+ studies, LLLT is evidence-based, painless, and ideal for those with persistent shoulder pain or impingement not responding to standard care.
What is Shoulder Impingement?
Shoulder impingement syndrome is a common cause of shoulder pain where the rotator cuff tendons or subacromial bursa become compressed within the subacromial space – the narrow area between the humeral head (upper arm bone) and the acromion (part of the shoulder blade). This compression causes irritation, inflammation, and pain, particularly during overhead activities.
This repetitive compression leads to inflammation, pain, and dysfunction and may eventually contribute to rotator cuff tendinopathy or bursitis if not addressed.
Causes of Shoulder Impingement
Shoulder impingement is often the result of a combination of biomechanical and structural factors, including:
- Repetitive overhead movement (e.g. swimming, painting, tennis, lifting)
- Age-related changes such as tendon degeneration or osteophytes (bony spurs)
- Poor movement mechanics during lifting or overhead motion
- Previous rotator cuff (shoulder) or scapula injury or bursitis
Symptoms
Common symptoms of impingement include:
- Pain when lifting the arm, particularly overhead
- Discomfort during activities such as dressing, reaching, or sleeping on the affected side
- Pain that worsens with repetitive use or prolonged shoulder activity
- Weakness and reduced range of motion
- Night pain or discomfort lying on the affected side and that can disturb sleep
- Restricted range of motion or weakness in the shoulder
- A catching, clicking, or grinding sensation with shoulder movement
Symptoms may develop gradually and can often co-exist with rotator cuff tears or bursitis.
How is Shoulder Impingement Diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with a comprehensive history and physical examination by Dr Shikha Parmar. This includes:
- Assessment of pain location, onset, and triggers
- Evaluation of shoulder alignment
- Range of movement limitations and painful arc
- Muscle strength testing
- Palpation for tenderness over rotator cuff tendons or bursa
If further clarification is needed:
- Ultrasound may reveal inflamed tendons or bursae
- X-ray can help detect bone spurs or acromial shape contributing to impingement
- MRI offers detailed imaging of soft tissues and may confirm partial tears or inflammation or more severe injury
Shoulder Impingement – Treatment Overview
Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), also known as Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT), is a gentle, evidence-based treatment that targets the underlying cause of shoulder impingement: inflammation and micro-tears affecting the rotator cuff tendons and bursa. It promotes healing without mechanical stress to already irritated shoulder structures.
Why Choose Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)?
Many patients present after limited relief from medications, physiotherapy, or injections. These approaches may ease symptoms temporarily but often fail to address persistent tendon inflammation and may aggravate symptoms if loading or exercise is introduced too early.
Why ice, anti-inflammatories, cortisone, and PRP may not support long-term recovery. Read more here.
How LLLT Supports Healing
LLLT uses red and near-infrared light to restore balance to the inflammatory process and stimulate tendon and bursal repair by:
- Improving circulation and oxygenation
- Enhancing lymphatic drainage
- Reducing inflammation and oxidative stress
- Increasing cellular energy (ATP)
- Supporting regeneration of rotator cuff tissues
All without loading or stressing the shoulder joint.
Proven, Safe, and Effective
It is non-invasive, painless, and supported by extensive clinical research. Read more here.
See how LLLT helps restore the cellular environment needed for repair here.
Our Treatment Program
All patients are assessed by Dr Shikha Parmar (GP). Treatment is delivered within a structured six-week program, including:
- Up to 12 LLLT sessions
- Review after 6 sessions
- Individualised advice and activity modification
- Guided rehabilitation for durable recovery
Patients who respond typically show 15–20% improvement within the first 6 sessions, with best-case improvement of 70–90% over the full program.
View the full treatment protocol and expected outcomes here.
Ready for Lasting Relief?
If you are struggling with ongoing shoulder pain or signs of impingement, we invite you to contact our experienced team at Laser Pain Therapy. Our LLLT treatment offers a safe, effective, and lasting solution to restore your comfort, mobility, and quality of life.
Contact us today to arrange your consultation and take the first step towards recovery.
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📞 (03) 8529 2225 Contact Us
