Sapporo Medical Journal

Abstract : Background: Subacromial impingement syndrome is an infringement of rotator cuff subacromial tissues, bursa, and the tendon of long head of the biceps due to decline of the subacrormial space. Actions demanding a frequent or continued usage of the arms overhead regularly influence the tendon of rotator cuff muscles. Objectives: To examine the effect of exercises program on subacromial space in patients with subacromial impingement syndrome. Materials and Methods: A pilot clinical study was conducted on 15 patients suffering from Subacromial impingement syndrome. They received exercises program (stretching posterior shoulder capsule, strengthening exercises and mobilization exercises for shoulder joint) trice a week, for 4 successive weeks. Patients were assessed before and after treatment for shoulder functional disability and shoulder subacromial space in adduction and abduction using ultrasonography (US). Results: all Patients showed significant improvement in shoulder functional disability and shoulder subacromial space in adduction and abduction (p<0.001). Conclusion: Exercises program is effective in improvement of shoulder functional disability and shoulder subacromial space in adduction and abduction.