Scapular kinematics and muscle performance in a single case of Parsonage-Turner

This study characterized the impairments of range of motion, three-dimensional scapulo-thoracic kinematics, isokinetic muscle performance and disability in a patient with Parsonage-Turner Syndrome. The patient had a history of 2.5-years of shoulder pain, and electroneurodiagnostic testing indicative of suprascapular neuropathy. The patient-rated Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score was 33.3% (0 = no symptoms/disability), and reduced shoulder internal rotation, external rotation, and flexion as compared bilaterally. There were deficits in isokinetic muscle performance at slow and fast speeds during abduction, lateral and medial rotations as compared to the uninvolved side. Alterations in scapular kinematics were decreased posterior tilt, increased internal rotation, and increased upward rotation during arm elevation and lowering. This information can be used to assist clinicians in developing treatment programs to address the alterations caused by this neuralgic amyotrophy.