[The effectiveness of a comprehensive program of physiotherapy in shoulder pain syndromes]

Periarthritis humeroscapularis (PHS) is a disease notable for serious therapeutic problems arising from lesions in various tissue structures. The shoulder is the most important biokinematic element in the upper extremity. For this reason, physiotherapy continues to search for an ideal form of rehabilitation. Treatment of PHS is long and difficult. The correct diagnosis combined with physiotherapy can reduce the suffering of the patient and shorten the duration of the disease. Thus, the restoration of physical activity can be expedited. We decided to assess the effectiveness of a comprehensive program of physiotherapy in shoulder pain syndromes. The study was done at the Rehabilitation Unit of the Stabłowice Clinic of the Wroclaw Health Center. We enrolled 30 patients aged 30 to 85 years (mean age: 60 +/- 14 years) with pain and limited mobility of the shoulder diagnosed as PHS.

A questionnaire with 12 questions addressing the intensity and extent of shoulder pain was prepared. Shoulder joint mobility was determined with a goniometric method. In addition, an 11-grade Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), where 0 meant no pain and 10 the most severe pain, was adopted. All patients underwent a series of 10 physiotherapeutic procedures directed at the shoulder joint. Assessment was made before and after therapy.

A considerable reduction of pain was noted after physiotherapy and massage, while exercises significantly improved mobility, muscle status, and function of the upper extremity.

The present study has shown that the comprehensive program of physiotherapy carried out at the Rehabilitation Unit of the Stabłowice Clinic of the Wrocław Health Center is effective in treating patients with the shoulder pain syndrome.