Emg assessment of muscular activation during shoulder elevation tasks based on activities of daily living in subjects with shoulder impingement syndrome

Rotator cuff pathology is the most common cause of shoulder pain, specifically shoulder impingement syndrome (SIS). SIS is commonly associated with changes in the glenohumeral and scapulothoracic movement patterns, suggesting dysfunction in the muscular activation order. The aims were to determine the scapular muscles activation timing in adults with SIS during arm elevation functional tasks. Methods: 31 people were recruited (20-control and 11-SIS group). The function evaluated was reached a jar on the upper shelf (eye level) and leave it on the bottom shelf (anterior superior iliac spines level), performed at self-selected comfortable speed. Muscular activity was measured using surface electromyography in shoulder, elbow and wrist muscles. Results: The muscle onset showed a delay in the medium trapezius muscle and an early extensor carpi radialis activation in the SIS group. Conclusion: The results show changes in the muscular activity during functional tasks for SIS patients.