Subacromial impingement is a common shoulder condition characterised by pain and functional limitations, primarily due to the compression of the rotator cuffs tendons and soft tissue beneath the Acromion. One significant contributing factor to Subarcomial impingement is poor scapular control, which can influence shoulder mechanics and lead to impingement.
The scapula (shoulder blade) plays a crucial role in shoulder function, providing a stable base for the humerus during arm movements. When the scapula fails to stabilise appropriately, it can lead to altered biomechanics, resulting in increased stress on the rotator cuff and Subacromial space. Individuals with poor scapular positioning exhibit altered shoulder kinematics, which can precipitate the development of Subacromial impingement (Kibler et al., 2013).
Inadequate scapular upward rotation and posterior tilting can cause the humeral head to migrate superiorly during arm elevation. This migration reduces the subacromial space, leading to potential impingement of the rotator cuff tendons and subacromial bursa.
Poor scapular control can be attributed to a variety of factors, including muscular imbalances, weakness, and motor control deficits. Rehabilitation focusing on scapular stabilization exercises has shown to be effective in improving outcomes for patients with Subacromial impingement. A systematic review concluded that targeted physiotherapy interventions aimed at enhancing scapular mechanics significantly reduced pain and improved function in individuals (Walch et al., 2019).
In summary, poor scapular control is a critical factor in the development of Subacromial impingement. Understanding this relationship can lead to more effective prevention and treatment strategies, emphasising the importance of scapular stability in maintaining shoulder health.
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