Correlation of Pain, Function, Muscle Strength, and Proprioception in Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Shoulder impingement is a prevalent musculoskeletal issue, with a high incidence rate. Strengthening exercises targeting the scapular stabilizers and rotator cuff muscles have been shown to be an effective treatment approach for shoulder impingement syndrome. Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the correlation among pain intensity, shoulder function, isometric muscle strength of the internal and external shoulder rotators, and proprioception in patients with shoulder impingement syndrome. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted involving 15 patients with shoulder impingement syndrome. Pain intensity was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), shoulder function was evaluated through the Arabic version of the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), isometric muscle strength of internal and external shoulder rotators was measured using the Lafayette handheld dynamometer, and proprioception was assessed with a digital inclinometer. Patients underwent three weeks of strengthening exercises targeting the rotator cuff muscles and scapular stabilizers.Results: The study revealed significant improvement in mean v alues of VAS, SPADI, HHD and proprioception in patients with shoulder impingement syndrome after receiving strengthening exercises. Pearson correlation analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between internal and external rotation muscle strength. A significant correlation between angle errors at 30° and 120° of shoulder flexion. However, no significant correlation between pain intensity and muscle strength, proprioception, or shoulder function.Conclusion: Strengthening exercises was effective on improving pain, shoulder function, internal and external muscle strength, and proprioception in SIS patients with no significant correlation between these variables