Subacromial impingement syndrome—effectiveness of physiotherapy and manual therapy

Abstract

Some physiotherapeutic treatments seem to be promising (moderate evidence) to treat SIS, but more research is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.

Effectiveness of physical therapy treatment of clearly defined subacromial pain: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials

“…This fact reinforces previous recommendations based on moderate evidence98 and also corroborates with Hallgren et al ,99 which demonstrated that specific exercises reduce the need for surgery. Concerning types of exercises used in the treatment, there were some interesting findings.…”

Current UK practices in the management of subacromial impingement

“…There is, however, little supporting evidence detailing an optimum period of conservative management. 9,10 Studies have suggested that very specific excercises are required for successful results with conservative management. 1,3 Some responders are therefore justified in raising concerns regarding the availability of appropriate physiotherapy expertise in their practice.…”

In-vivo measurements of force and humeral movement during inferior glenohumeral mobilizations

“…Based on the convex-concave rule which suggests that a superior roll of the convex humerus is accompanied by an inferior glide, caudal mobilizations of the shoulder are often used to address restrictions of glenohumeral abduction (Hsu et al, 2000, Kaltenborn et al, 2002. While there is an ongoing debate about the scientific evidence supporting the coupling of abduction with inferior glide (Graichen et al, 2000, Chopp et al, 2010, inferior mobilization of the humeral head remains a common manual therapy treatment for individuals with shoulder impingement, rotator cuff tear, adhesive capsulitis and bursitis (Senbursa et al, 2007, Lin et al, 2008, Senbursa et al, 2011, Gebremariam et al, 2014.…”