Shoulder function and scapular positioning pattern in patients with shoulder impingement syndrome before and after strengthening & flexibility exercises

Shoulder impingement syndrome is a common condition and is often managed with an exercise program. The purpose of this study was to identify changes that might occur in scapular positioning patterns and shoulder function after exercise program in patients with impingement.

Thirty subjects were assessed before and after a four week rehabilitation program. Pain, satisfaction, and function were measured using the University of Pennsylvania Shoulder Scale. Scapular kinematic data also were collected using gravity inclinometer. Subjects were given a progressive exercise program that included resistive strengthening, stretching, and postural exercises. Each subject attended five physical therapy sessions per week for a four-week period. Pre-test and post-test scores were compared using pairedt tests.

Improvements were found for pain, satisfaction, and shoulder function and for scapular upward rotation in saggital and scapular plane.

The use of this exercise protocol in the management of shoulder impingement syndrome may have a positive impact on patients’ impairments, functional limitations and scapular positioning pattern.