Kinetic strategies of patients with shoulder impingement syndrome

Our aim was to determine whether subjects with shoulder impingement syndrome (SIS) have abnormal multijoint torque patterns compared to healthy subjects during normalized isometric force along specific directions. Subjects had to generate an isometric force corresponding to 40% of the maximal pain-free force. Eight targets were displayed on a monitor (0, 45, 90, 135, 180, 225, 270, and 315 degrees ). We calculated shoulder and elbow torques (kinetic strategies) using a biomechanical model. Regardless of the target location, the SIS group succeeded in reaching the target; however, when compared to the healthy subjects, they needed more time to do so, suggesting that SIS may slow down the execution of the kinetic strategies. Moreover, the SIS group produced lower shoulder external/internal torque to reach the targets located at 0 degrees and 225 degrees, and they generated greater abduction/adduction torque for targets located at 0, 135, and 180 degrees. In addition, they had lower elbow extension/flexion torque for the target located at 315 degrees. The investigation of atypical kinetic strategies is essential to provide an understanding of the pathomechanics of the SIS and to develop more effective treatment strategies.