A Guide for Quick Assessment and Management of Subacromial Impingement Syndrome

Abstract

Subacromial Impingement Syndrome (SAIS) indicates a wide range of pathology varying from subacromial bursitis to rotator cuff wear and tear. It is one of the commonest causes of 45 to 65 % of the shoulder pain syndromes, still many times it is misdiagnosed as frozen shoulder as some of its symptoms overlap. It occurs mainly due to impingement of the structures beneath the acromion process due to narrowing of the subacromial space. The narrowing can occur due to extrinsic compression or intrinsic compression. Abnormal biomechanics which includes tight pectoralis major and minor, weak scapular stabilizers, congenital change in the shape of acromion process, etc. are one of the major causes of SAIS. And understanding its root cause will be very helpful in the diagnosis and management. Hence, this article provides a brief overview for quick clinical assessment and management of SAIS based upon the pathomechanics of SAIS.