Relationship Between Shoulder Impingement Syndrome and Thoracic Posture

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Physical Therapy
• Radiology

Background:

• Shoulder impingement syndrome (SIS) is a prevalent cause of shoulder pain with often limited treatment success.
• Existing research indicates a connection between shoulder function and thoracic posture, but a direct association with SIS remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential relationship between thoracic posture and shoulder impingement syndrome (SIS).

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 39 participants with SIS and 39 matched controls.
• Thoracic posture (modified Cobb angle) and range of motion (ROM) were assessed using radiography and inclinometry.
• Statistical analyses included t tests for group comparisons and linear regression for associations.

Main Results:

• Participants with SIS exhibited significantly greater thoracic kyphosis compared to controls.
• Individuals with SIS also demonstrated reduced active thoracic extension ROM.
• A correlation was found between increased thoracic kyphosis and decreased extension ROM.

Conclusions:

• Individuals with SIS present with altered thoracic posture, specifically increased kyphosis and diminished extension.
• These findings suggest that thoracic spine assessment and intervention could be a valuable component of managing SIS.
• Further research is warranted to establish causality and optimize treatment strategies.