The effect of a sensorimotor exercise program in patients with subacromial pain syndrome

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a special sensorimotor exercise rehabilitation program on shoulder function. In a prospective intervention study we evaluated 32 patients with subacromial pain syndrome, all of whom took part in a conservative rehabilitation program. No patient had surgery on the shoulder involved prior to the study. All patients performed a standardised sensorimotor training for the glenohumeral joint, which involved, in particular, the glenohumeral and scapulothoracal stabilisers. In this rehabilitation program special proprioceptive exercise tools (body-blade, BOING) were used as well as Tai Chi and aquatic gymnastics. The entire program lasted 4 weeks and was performed and supervised by the same physiotherapist. Prior to and after the program all patients underwent a standardised series of tests. These included the Constant- and the UCLA-Score tests and sensorimotor functions with an angle reproduction test, a threshold to motion test as well as isometric strength testing with a Cybex unit. Prior to the rehabilitation program all subjects showed decreased proprioceptive capabilities. This was particularly evident in the threshold to motion test. After 4 weeks of rehabilitation, significant increases in the Constant- and UCLA-Score tests were found. The sensorimotor test also showed an increased proprioceptive capability especially in the threshold to motion test. The angle reproduction test showed only moderate improvement, whereas the isokinetic strength test showed no improvement at all. The present study shows that patients with subacromial pathology suffer from a proprioceptive deficit which can be improved by a special rehabilitation program within only 4 weeks.