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Scapular kinematics and impairment features for classifying patients with subacromial impingement syndrome

Cheng-Ju Hunga, Mei-Hwa Janac, Yeong-Fwu Linc, Tyng-Quey Wangd, Jiu-Jenq LinabCorresponding Author Informationemail address

Received 25 February 2010; received in revised form 3 June 2010; accepted 8 June 2010. published online 08 July 2010.
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Abstract 

Subacromial impingement syndrome (SAIS), which is associated with pain and a loss of function, has a high occurrence in the physically active population. Not all patients respond positively to treatment. Classifying patients can improve decision-making. The scapular kinematic and clinical impairments can aid in classifying the patients who are more likely to respond to physical therapy treatment. Thirty-three subjects (males, 20–33 years) presenting SAIS were studied to determine altered scapular kinematics and clinical impairments. Three measurements were collected: (1) three-dimensional scapular kinematics during performing functional tasks; (2) impairment outcomes of range of motion and muscle force; and (3) self-reported measurements of pain, satisfaction, and function. All patients received 6-week (2 times per week) physical therapy treatment. Improvement with treatment was determined using the Global Rating of Change Scale. Scapular kinematics and clinical impairments were first identified by t-test in predicting improvement and then combined into a multivariate prediction method. A prediction method with three variables (Flexilevel Scale of Shoulder Function score<41, muscle power of serratus anterior<27.4% body weight, degree of scapular internal rotation at 30° shoulder elevation during descending arm phase in unloaded condition<0.7°) were identified. It appears that scapular kinematics and impairment features can be used to classify subjects with SAIS in addition to self-report. Prospective validation of the proposed prediction method requires further investigation.

a School and Graduate Institute of Physical Therapy, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taiwan

b Physical Therapy Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan

c Yeong-An Clinic, Taipei, Taiwan

d Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taiwan

Corresponding Author InformationCorresponding author. School and Graduate Institute of Physical Therapy, National Taiwan University, Floor 3, No.17, Xuzhou Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City 100, Taiwan.

 This study was funded by the National Science Council, Taiwan (NSC 97-2314-B-002-006-MY3).

PII: S1356-689X(10)00105-0

doi:10.1016/j.math.2010.06.003