The Pathophysiology of Subacromial Impingement Syndrome
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The Pathophysiology of Subacromial Impingement Syndrome: A study of Function, Kinematics and Muscular Activity
IRAS ID
281677
Contact name
David H Hawkes
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Liverpool Hope University
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Subacromial Impingment syndrome is a common cause of shoulder pain in both the general and sporting population. It results from compression of structures within the subacromial space of the shoulder during arm elevation, which can cause significant pain and functional problems. Previously, surgery was frequently performed for this condition. This involved shaving the bone on the outer aspect of the shoulder to make more space of the tendons as the arm is lifted. However, a recent trial has questioned the benefit of this surgery. This has highlighted fundamental deficiencies in our understanding of this common condition. As a result, physiotherapy has become the mainstay of treatment.
There are a range of factors that are proposed to contribute to the development of subacromial pain syndrome. These range from local abnormalities within the shoulder itself to abnormal muscle activation patterns. Abnormal muscle activation patterns influence our ability to control the shoulder joint during movement, which can limit the space available for the tendons which help lift the arm.
The aim of this project is to comprehensively re-evaluate the causes of subacromial pain syndrome. A series of assessments will be performed including questionnaires, body composition measurement, strength and a functional test to measure shoulder function. Motion capture will be used to study shoulder movement. This involves videoing movements and using sensors to show what is happening. Electromyography will be used to study muscle activation, which involves detecting electrical signs from muscles as they contract. Finally, galvanic skin response measurements will be used evaluate how patients feel about moving their arm into potentially painful positions. The results in patients will be compared to those with a healthy shoulder. The tests will also be repeated inpatients after they have undergone a standard physiotherapy program as part of their routine clinical care.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Leeds East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
23/YH/0196
Date of REC Opinion
21 Aug 2023
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion