Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when the tendons or bursa at the top of the shoulder become compressed during arm movements. This often causes pain with reaching, lifting the arm or working with the hands away from the body. Symptoms may develop gradually and can fluctuate throughout the working day.

Because many desk-based tasks involve sustained arm positions, subtle reaching and poor shoulder support, everyday work habits can significantly influence how comfortable the shoulder feels.

How shoulder impingement affects comfort at work

Impingement is strongly influenced by posture and arm position. Common workplace patterns that increase compression include:

• Working with the arm held forward or away from the body
Reaching for the mouse or keyboard increases compression under the acromion.

• Elevated or tense shoulders
A desk that is too high or a chair that is too low encourages shoulder shrugging, narrowing the space in the shoulder.

• Slouched upper-back posture
Poor thoracic posture reduces the shoulder’s ability to move freely, increasing strain during arm movements.

• Repetitive or sustained arm use
Typing or mouse use without breaks can make the shoulder feel increasingly sore and restricted.

These factors often combine to make symptoms worse as the day progresses.

How to reduce strain and support shoulder comfort at work

Shoulder impingement often responds well to reducing compression, improving support, and using gentle, symptom-guided movement.

1. Bring work closer and keep the arm supported

Position the mouse and keyboard close so the elbow stays near your side.
Lightly support the forearm on the desk or armrest to reduce shoulder load.

2. Optimise desk and chair height

Adjust the chair so shoulders can remain relaxed rather than lifted.
If needed, raise the chair and use a footrest to keep arms at a comfortable height.

3. Improve upper-back posture

Sitting with gentle upper-back support allows the shoulder to move with less compression.
A small posture reset, sitting tall, relaxing the shoulders, can ease symptoms.

4. Use gentle, pain-free movement

Comfortable movement can help prevent stiffness without worsening impingement. Options include:

• Shoulder rolls
• Pendulum movements if soothing
• Scapular resets (gentle shoulder blade squeezes)

Movements should stay within a pain-free range and never be forced.

5. Break up repetitive tasks

Change position every 20–30 minutes to avoid sustained compression.
Even brief posture changes can reduce irritation and improve comfort.

Final thoughts

Shoulder impingement syndrome is often closely linked to posture and work habits. Small changes: bringing work closer, supporting the arm, relaxing the shoulders and using gentle movement — can significantly reduce compression and improve comfort during t

‍