Authors :
Sanhita Bose
Volume/Issue :
ICVDRS 2026
Google Scholar :
https://tinyurl.com/4dr8s66p
Scribd :
https://tinyurl.com/57bercuk
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26jul427
Abstract :
Background:
Shoulder impingement syndrome is a common cause of shoulder pain in physically active individuals and is frequently
associated with altered scapular kinematics and rotator cuff dysfunction. Scapular stabilization exercises aim to restore
normal scapulothoracic rhythm, reduce subacromial stress, and improve functional outcomes in patients with shoulder
impingement.
Case Presentation:
This case report describes a 29-year-old recreational athlete presenting with chronic shoulder pain during overhead
activities, resulting in limitations in sports participation and daily functional tasks. The patient underwent a six-week
physiotherapy rehabilitation program that included scapular stabilization exercises, rotator cuff strengthening, manual
therapy techniques, and activity modification. The intervention was progressively advanced based on symptom response
and functional improvement.
Results:
Outcome measures included the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), and shoulder
range of motion assessment. Pain intensity reduced from 6/10 to 1/10 on the VAS following the intervention. The SPADI
total score improved from 52% to 14%, indicating substantial reduction in pain and disability. Active shoulder abduction
increased from 110° to 165°, while shoulder external rotation improved from 45° to 75°. These improvements exceeded
clinically meaningful change thresholds and were accompanied by restoration of pain-free overhead movement.
Conclusion:
This case report demonstrates that a comprehensive rehabilitation program emphasizing scapular stabilization and
rotator cuff strengthening can effectively reduce pain and improve functional shoulder performance in individuals with
shoulder impingement syndrome. Addressing scapular mechanics should be considered a key component of physiotherapy
management for shoulder impingement.
Keywords :
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome; Scapular Stabilization; Rotator Cuff Strengthening; Physiotherapy Rehabilitation.
Background:
Shoulder impingement syndrome is a common cause of shoulder pain in physically active individuals and is frequently
associated with altered scapular kinematics and rotator cuff dysfunction. Scapular stabilization exercises aim to restore
normal scapulothoracic rhythm, reduce subacromial stress, and improve functional outcomes in patients with shoulder
impingement.
Case Presentation:
This case report describes a 29-year-old recreational athlete presenting with chronic shoulder pain during overhead
activities, resulting in limitations in sports participation and daily functional tasks. The patient underwent a six-week
physiotherapy rehabilitation program that included scapular stabilization exercises, rotator cuff strengthening, manual
therapy techniques, and activity modification. The intervention was progressively advanced based on symptom response
and functional improvement.
Results:
Outcome measures included the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), and shoulder
range of motion assessment. Pain intensity reduced from 6/10 to 1/10 on the VAS following the intervention. The SPADI
total score improved from 52% to 14%, indicating substantial reduction in pain and disability. Active shoulder abduction
increased from 110° to 165°, while shoulder external rotation improved from 45° to 75°. These improvements exceeded
clinically meaningful change thresholds and were accompanied by restoration of pain-free overhead movement.
Conclusion:
This case report demonstrates that a comprehensive rehabilitation program emphasizing scapular stabilization and
rotator cuff strengthening can effectively reduce pain and improve functional shoulder performance in individuals with
shoulder impingement syndrome. Addressing scapular mechanics should be considered a key component of physiotherapy
management for shoulder impingement.
Keywords :
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome; Scapular Stabilization; Rotator Cuff Strengthening; Physiotherapy Rehabilitation.
