Scapular Movement Impairments in Individuals with Subacromial Pain Syndrome Based on Scapular Assistance Test and Scapula Reposition Test Outcomes

Background: Individuals with subacromial pain present with a variety of contributing impairments related to the movement problem. The scapular assistance test (SAT) and scapula reposition test (SRT) are proposed to identify shoulder pain related to abnormal scapular movement or position. It remains unknown if scapular movement related impairments are present in those with positive tests.

Objectives: To determine if scapular motion related impairments differ based on the result of the SAT or SRT in individuals with subacromial pain syndrome.

Design: Cross-sectional METHOD: Sixty individuals with subacromial pain syndrome were included. Prior to obtaining results of the SAT and SRT, a single examiner measured scapular upward rotation and posterior tilt active and passive motion, pectoralis minor length, and strength of the middle trapezius, lower trapezius, and serratus anterior. Dynamic scapular motion was qualitatively assessed with the Scapular Dyskinesis Test. The Mann-Whitney U test assessed for differences based on the outcome of the SAT and SRT.

Results: There was a significant difference (P = .023) in pectoralis minor length for the SAT. Participants with a positive SAT had decreased muscle length compared to those who tested negative. There were no significant differences in scapular motion or strength based on the result of either the SAT or SRT.

Conclusions: A positive SAT was associated with greater pectoralis minor length impairment, but not muscle strength or mobility. The SRT did not identify greater impairments in any of the scapular movement related impairments assessed. Individuals may vary in contributing impairments related to SAT or SRT results.