A Comparison Between People With and Without Subacromial Impingement Syndrome and a New Method for Measuring Thoracolumbar Fascia Flexibility

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the flexibility of the thoracolumbar fascia (TLF) in individuals with and without subacromial impingement syndrome (SAIS). A secondary purpose was to demonstrate a new method for measuring TLF flexibility.

Methods: A total of 60 participants-30 diagnosed with SAIS and 30 asymptomatic-were included. In both groups, trunk flexibility was assessed by the modified Schober test, TLF flexibility by rotational measurement on a goniometric platform, and shoulder posterior capsule tightness by tape measurement. The data obtained were compared using t tests for independent variables.

Results: No statistically significant difference was observed for any parameter between participants with SAIS and healthy controls (P > .05).

Conclusion: For the participants we studied, the flexibility of the TLF was not associated with SAIS. The goniometric evaluation method used in this study was affordable and feasible. The validity and reliability of this measurement method should be assessed further in future studies.

Keywords: Fascia; Lumbosacral Region; Pliability; Shoulder.

© 2021 by National University of Health Sciences.

Figures

Fig 1

Flowchart of the study.

Fig 2

Goniometric platform.

Fig 3

Measurement of the flexibility of the thoracolumbar fascia with the goniometric platform: beginning (A) and end position (B).

Fig 4

Shoulder posterior capsule tightness assessment.