Effect of Scapular Stabilization Exercises on Pain and Functional Outcomes in Subacromial Impingement Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Kanuni Sultan Suleyman Training and Research Hospital

Status: Completed

Conditions: Subacromial Impingement Syndrome

Treatments: Other: Standard Physiotherapy

Study type: Interventional

Funder types: Other

Identifiers

NCT07277868

impingement-2025

Details and patient eligibility

About

This randomized controlled study aims to evaluate the effects of scapular stabilization exercises on pain, shoulder function, and quality of life in patients with subacromial impingement syndrome. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a scapular stabilization exercise program or a conventional shoulder rehabilitation program. Pain, functional outcome measures, and patient-reported quality of life will be assessed at baseline, 4 weeks, and 12 weeks. The study seeks to determine whether adding scapular stabilization exercises provides superior clinical benefit.

Full description

Subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS) is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain and functional limitation. Scapular dyskinesis plays a key role in the development and persistence of SIS by altering scapulohumeral rhythm and increasing mechanical stress on subacromial tissues. Scapular stabilization exercises are increasingly used to restore normal scapular mechanics, improve muscular control, and reduce pain, but the clinical effectiveness of these exercises compared to conventional rehabilitation programs remains unclear.

This prospective, single-blind randomized controlled study investigates the effects of a scapular stabilization exercise program on pain, functional outcomes, and quality of life in patients diagnosed with SIS. Participants are randomly allocated to either a scapular stabilization group or a conventional shoulder rehabilitation group. Pain (VAS), functional status (QuickDASH and SPADI), range of motion, and quality-of-life measures are assessed at baseline, 4 weeks, and 12 weeks. The study aims to determine whether adding scapular stabilization exercises to standard rehabilitation leads to superior clinical improvement compared to conventional therapy alone.

Enrollment: 60 patients

Sex: All

Ages: 18 to 65 years old

Volunteers: No Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion criteria

• Adults aged 18 to 65 years.
• Clinically diagnosed subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS) based on:positive Neer test ,positive Hawkins-Kennedy test ,painful arc between 60°-120°,pain during resisted shoulder tests
• Symptoms present for at least 4 weeks.
• Ability to comply with a 12-week supervised rehabilitation program.
• Ability to provide written informed consent.

Exclusion criteria

• Previous shoulder surgery on the affected side.
• Presence of full-thickness rotator cuff tear confirmed by ultrasound imaging.
• Evidence of cervical radiculopathy or significant cervical spine pathology.
• Advanced glenohumeral or acromioclavicular osteoarthritis.
• History of inflammatory rheumatic diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis).
• Severe cardiopulmonary, neurological, or systemic conditions limiting physical activity.
• Recent shoulder fracture or dislocation (< 6 months).
• Participation in another structured shoulder rehabilitation program within the last 3 months.
• Pregnancy.
• Inability to understand or follow instructions required for the intervention or assessments.

Trial design

Primary purpose: Treatment

Allocation: Randomized

Interventional model: Parallel Assignment

Masking: None (Open label)

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60 participants in 2 patient groups

Standard Physiotherapy

Active Comparator group

Description:

Participants in this arm receive standard physiotherapy consisting of electrotherapy, range-of-motion exercises, and stretching. The program is administered three times per week for 12 weeks. No scapular-specific stabilization or mobilization exercises are included. All participants also receive a home exercise program for daily stretching and mobility exercises.

Treatment:

Other: Standard Physiotherapy

Scapular Stabilization + Mobilization-Based Rehabilitation

Experimental group

Description:

Participants receive the same standard physiotherapy as the control group, combined with a supervised scapular stabilization and mobilization-based rehabilitation program. This structured 12-week protocol (3 sessions per week) includes passive scapular mobilization (10-12 minutes per session) and a three-phase stabilization exercise progression targeting scapular mechanics, muscle activation, strength, and neuromuscular control. A daily home exercise program is also provided.

Treatment:

Other: Standard Physiotherapy