[Clarification of the concept humeroscapular periarthritis]

Shoulder pain may be due to various reasons. It is primarily produced by changes in the periarticular structures of the shoulder joint. The term "periarthritis humeroscapularis" (PHS), often used at diagnosis, is unsuitable however because it prevents differentiation of the various clinical pictures related to the anatomical structures. Among the anatomical structures concerned, above all the rotator cuff and here especially the suprasinatus muscle must be mentioned. Also the long biceps tendon and the shoulder joint capsule are, according to Welfling, locations of painful processes, not to forget the subacromial bursa. The pathology responsible for the clinical symptoms and signs is primarily produced by degenerative changes. They lead to tendopathy, as well as to tendon rupture, and also seem to be of importance in connection with calcifying tendopathy. Capsule shrinkage in shoulder stiffness can also be influenced by neighboring degenerative processes. This also applies to isolated bursitis. Today thorough clinical and radiological clarification makes a differentiated diagnosis possible so that the vague term "periarthritis humeroscapularis" can be dropped.