Author(s): XI, R.1, ZHOU, J.B.2, LI, G.P.2, Institution: CHINA INSTITUTE OF SPORT SCIENCE, Country: CHINA, Abstract-ID: 287

INTRODUCTION:
Scapular focused exercise interventions are frequently used to treat individuals with shoulder pain. However, evidence for changes in scapular position after intervention is limited. The purpose of this study is to explore the effect of 8-week scapular stabilization exercises on shoulder joint function and scapular position in patients with subacromial impingement syndrome.
METHODS:
Methods：45 patients with subacromial impingement syndrome were randomly divided into intervention group (n = 22) and control group (n = 23). The intervention group received scapular stabilization exercises and two health education courses for 8 weeks (three times a week), while the control group received two health education courses. All outcomes were measured preintervention and postintervention at 8 weeks. Outcome measures were Visual Analogue Score(VAS),Shoulder Pain and Disability Index(SPADI), Coracoid upward shift distance (CUSD), length of the scapular spine line (LSS), and scapular upward rotation angle (SURA) which were measured on the radiographs.
RESULTS:
The intervention group showed significant improvement (p< 0.05) in VAS and SPADI compared to the control group. Significant changes were found in SURA and CUSD in the intervention group after 8weeks(p< 0.05).
CONCLUSION:
This study indicated that scapular stabilization exercise can improve symptoms and alter the position of the scapula in subacromial impingement syndrome patients.The results provide biomechanical support for the clinical rationale for indicating therapeutic exercises focused on the scapular muscles to improve scapular dynamics and shoulder function.