NCT07277868

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

Effect of Scapular Stabilization Exercises on Functional Outcomes in the Treatment of Subacromial Impingement Syndrome: A Controlled Clinical Study

• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 60 (actual)
• Sponsor: Kanuni Sultan Suleyman Training and Research Hospital · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 18 Years – 65 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

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.

Detailed 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.

Conditions

• Subacromial Impingement Syndrome

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
OTHER	Standard Physiotherapy	Standard physiotherapy consisting of electrotherapy modalities, range-of-motion exercises, and stretching exercises. The program is administered three times per week for 12 weeks. The intervention does not include any scapular-specific stabilization or mobilization techniques. All participants receive a home exercise program including daily stretching and mobility exercises.

Timeline

• Start date: 2025-08-30
• Primary completion: 2025-11-30
• Completion: 2025-12-30
• First posted: 2025-12-11
• Last updated: 2026-01-13

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Turkey (Türkiye)