Background Rotator cuff lesion (RCL) is an term that encompasses a spectrum of shoulder conditions including; subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS), partial and full thickness rotator cuff tears (RCT) and calcific tendinitis. Symptoms include pain, limited motion, muscle weakness and functional disability.

Objectives To investigate the relationship between scapular muscle endurance (SME), muscle strength, pain and function in patients with shoulder RCL.

Methods This study was conducted on 53 patients in shoulder RCL and 23 healthy controls. SIS was present in 25 patients (14 males, 11 females; mean age 41±9 years) and partial RCT in 28 patients (16 females, 12 males; mean age was 54±5 years) in the study group. In the control group, there were 12 females and 11 males and the mean age was 48±10 years. SME was measured as isometric based on the exercise developed by Sahrmann. Strength of the shoulder and scapular muscles were evaluated with digital manuel muscle dynamometer. Activity, night and rest pain levels were evaluated by visual analog scale. Functional activity status was assessed by the Functional Impairment Test-Head, and Neck/Shoulder/Arm (FIT-HaNSA).

Results Statistically significant relationship was found positively in varying grades between SME and serratus anterior, middle trapezius, shoulder flexor, extensor, abductor, supraspinatus, pectoralis majör strength in partial RCT group and between lower trapezius muscle strength and SME in addition to these muscles in SIS group (p<0.05). Statistically significant relationship at varying degrees was found between SME and all muscles excluding shoulder internal, external rotators in control group (p<0.05). In SIS and partial RCT groups, negative, moderate and statistically significant relationship was found between SME and activity pain (p<0.05). In SIS and partial RCT groups significant correlation was not observed between SME and rest, night pain levels (p>0.05). In SIS and partial RCT groups, positive, excellent and statistically significant relationship was detected between SME and FIT-HaNSA (p<0.05). In control group, positive, moderate, again statistically significant relationship was detected (p<0.05).

Conclusions Muscle strength may be reduced, upper extremity function may worsen and activity pain may increase in patients with reduced SME. It was concluded that shaping of exercise programs of muscle groups related to SME in rehabilitation studies and SME should be increased in patients with SIS and partial RCT in order to reduce shoulder pain and improve its functionality.

References

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3. Edmondston, S. J., Wallumrød, M. E., MacLéid, F., Kvamme, L. S., Joebges, S. and Brabham, G. C. (2008). Reliability of isometric muscle endurance tests in subjects with postural neck pain. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 31(5), 348–354.

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References

Disclosure of Interest None declared