Shoulder range of motion and acromiohumeral distance in individuals with persistent shoulder pain

Abstract

Background and aims: There is evidence that changes on shoulder range of motion (ROM) and acromiohumeral distance (AHD) might be related with rotator cuff–related shoulder pain (RCRSP) symptoms. Thus, the aim of this study was exploring the association between shoulder pain and function, ROM and AHD in individuals with persistent RCRSP. Methods: One-hundred thirty individuals with RCRSP (>3months of symptoms) were examined (45.3±9.5years; 64.6.4%women; 54.6% had pain duration > 1year). Shoulder pain and function were evaluated by Shoulder Pain Disability Index (SPADI) Shoulder elevation (ROM) in the scapular plane was measured in standing, using a hydro-goniometer. AHD was quantified by ultrasonography at 0 and 60 degrees of shoulder elevation in the same plane. The same blinded investigator took all measurements. The analysis was based on SPADI total score and its two domains: pain and disability. Results: there was a significant negative correlation between shoulder range of motion and SPADI total score (r = −0.22 p = 0.01), SPADI pain score (r = −0.19; p = 0.02) and SPADI disability score (r = −0.23; p < 0.00), respectively. A significant negative correlation was also demonstrated between pain duration and AHD 0º (r = −0.18; p = 0.04) and AHD 60º (r = −0.24; p < 0.00), respectively. Conclusion: there was a small association between shoulder pain and function, ROM and AHD in individuals with persistent RCRSP, suggesting that other factors should be taken into account to treat individuals with chronic symptoms.