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Occupation-based intervention for subacromial pain syndrome: A pilot randomized controlled trial
Ilkem Ceren Sigirtmac1, Nermin Ay Kiremitci2, Ozgur Bulbul3
1Faculty of Health Sciences, Occupational Therapy Department, Cankiri Karatekin University, Cankiri, Turkey.
Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation
|December 22, 2025
Summary
An occupation-based intervention (OBI) significantly reduced pain and disability for subacromial pain syndrome (SAPS) patients. This four-week program improved function, sleep, and overall well-being, showing promise for SAPS rehabilitation.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Science
- Occupational Therapy
- Pain Management
Background:
- Subacromial pain syndrome (SAPS) is a common cause of functional limitation.
- Conventional therapies focus on impairments, while occupation-based interventions (OBI) emphasize meaningful activity engagement for recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of an OBI for individuals with chronic SAPS.
- To assess the impact of OBI on pain, disability, functional performance, sleep, and life satisfaction.
Main Methods:
- A pilot randomized controlled trial involving 30 adults with chronic SAPS.
- Participants were assigned to either OBI (12 sessions over 4 weeks) or a no-treatment control group.
- Outcomes included the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), sleep quality, fatigue, and Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS).
Main Results:
- The OBI group demonstrated significant reductions in SPADI pain and disability.
- Marked improvements were observed in COPM performance and satisfaction, alongside better sleep quality.
- The no-treatment group showed no significant changes in outcomes.
Conclusions:
- A four-week OBI is feasible and provides clinically meaningful improvements for SAPS patients.
- OBI positively impacts pain, disability, sleep, and occupation-centered outcomes.
- Further large-scale trials are warranted to confirm OBI's efficacy against standard rehabilitation.
