Effect of Adding Scapular Focused Exercises Program to the Conventional Physical Therapy Program on Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Abstract

Background: Shoulder Impingement Syndrome is one of the most common shoulder complaints that account for 44-65% of all visits for shoulder pain which are characterized by pain and functional impairments. Treatment results for shoulder impingement could be achieved with conservative treatment, exercise therapy such as scapular stabilization exercises, stretching and strengthening, especially for rotator cuff muscle was recommended to improve pain, mobility, and function. Aim of Study: To compare between the effect of adding scapular focused exercises program to conventional physical therapy program and conventional physical therapy program alone on secondary shoulder impingement syndrome Methods: Thirty patients diagnosed with subacute and chronic SAIS, age ranged from (18-35) years old. The patients had a painful arc in abduction and flexion above 60 degrees and the point of greatest tenderness was over the coracoacromial arch. Our measurements variables were x ray for measuring subacromial space, VAS for measuring shoulder pain, SPADI for measuring shoulder pain and function and Lateral scapular slide test for scapular dyskinesia. They were randomized into two groups, A and B, each group received a rehabilitation program 3 sessions per week for 6 weeks. Group A received a conventional physical therapy program by shoulder stretching and strengthening exercises, while group B received a conventional physical therapy program plus scapular focused exercises program (stabilizing and strengthening exercises for scapular muscles).