Coracoid Impingement: Diagnosis and Treatment

Michael Q. Freehill, MD J Am Acad Orthop Surg 2011 19

Coracoid impingement is a controversial, well-known diagnosis that results in anterior shoulder pain. Idiopathic, traumatic, and iatrogenic etiologies have been identified. Proper diagnosis requires a focused clinical examination of the anterior shoulder and adjacent structures. MRI and CT are helpful in evaluating coracoid morphology as well as the integrity of the rotator cuff and long head of the biceps. Imaging is an essential diagnostic tool. Initial management consists of physical therapy and injection therapies. Surgery may be required when nonsurgical methods are unsuccessful. Successful functional and subjective outcomes have been reported with both open and arthroscopic techniques.