Cervical range of motion in individuals with and without chronic subacromial pain syndrome: a cross-sectional study

To compare cervical range of motion (ROM) between asymptomatic individuals and those with subacromial pain syndrome (SAPS), and to investigate its relationship with shoulder pain, disability, and other clinical factors.

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 50 individuals with SAPS and 50 asymptomatic controls (both sexes, aged 32-66). The Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) assessed shoulder disability, and cervical ROM was measured using a cervical range of motion (CROM) device.

Individuals with SAPS had significantly reduced cervical ROM compared to controls, confirmed by Student's t-test or Mann-Whitney test. Large effect sizes were observed (Cohen's d = 1.08 and 1.65 for right bending and extension; Mann-Whitney effect size = -0.44 to -0.56 for other movements). Pearson correlations revealed a significant inverse relationship between cervical ROM and SPADI scores (r = -0.42 to -0.61). Chi-square analysis indicated that shoulder pain was associated with cervical ROM deficits (Χ² = 6.83 to 27.75), with prevalence ratios ranging from 1.5 (flexion) to 4.25 (left rotation) higher in individuals with SAPS. These deficits were also associated with longer duration of shoulder pain, higher neck pain intensity, and older age.

Individuals with SAPS have reduced cervical mobility compared to asymptomatic individuals, especially for cervical rotation. Cervical ROM deficits were more prevalent in individuals with SAPS and correlated with greater shoulder disability. Clinical factors such as duration of shoulder pain, neck pain intensity, and age contribute to these deficits. These findings highlight the need to assess cervical mobility in patients with SAPS.