J. Alibazi R.1, Nodehi Moghadam A.1, Rostami M.2
1University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran, 2University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Physiotherapy, Tehran, Iran
Background: Scapular dyskinesis is an abnormal scapular motion or position during active arm elevation. Dyskinesis is theorized to contribute to impingement syndrome by decreasing the subacromial space. One of the most common causes of scapular dyskinesis is scapulothoracic muscle imbalances. As a result by improving the shortness or inhibition of these muscles, we can expect less severe scapular dyskinesis and increased subacromial space.
Purpose: Thus the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 6 weeks shoulder girdle muscle exercises on the subacromial space and scapulohumeral rhythm in the subjects with scapular dyskinesis.
Methods: Twenty subjects with obvious scapular dyskinesis were participated in the study. Before and after 6 weeks exercise program any alteration of scapular orientation was assessed obviously by scapular dyskinesis test also the anterior outlet of subacromial space was measured via the acromiuhumeral distance (AHD) using ultra sonography in 3 position of 0 ̊, 60 ̊ and 90 ̊ abduction. In addition Disability and pain was measured by quick DASH questionnaire. Exercise program consisted of stretching, strengthening and postural correction. In addition, subjects were given information about the anatomy and the importance of scapular position in shoulder kinematics.
Results: The results showed after exercise program the scapular dyskinesis was improved as well as pain and disability of shoulder arm and hand was reduced significantly (P 0.05). There were no differences in AHD pre to post treatment conditions in none of the positions (P > 0.05).
Conclusion(s): The 6 weeks exercise program led to less severe scapular dyskinesis which improve function and reduce pain in shoulder girdle of subjects with scapular dyskinesis. However it seems that less scapular dyskinesis does not have any effect on AHD. More research needed to investigate the influence of intrinsic factors.
Implications: One of the important extrinsic factors that can contribute to shoulder impingement syndrome could be alterations in scapulohumeral kinematics. Therefore, scapular focused exercises are an important part of the rehabilitation of shoulder impingement syndrome. However, in this study these exercises led to less pain and disability but it did not result in changing in acromiohumeral distance.
Funding acknowledgements: No funding.
Topic: Musculoskeletal: upper limb
Ethics approval: Ethical committee of university of social welfare and rehabilitation sciences
All authors, affiliations and abstracts have been published as submitted.
