Which symptom is often part of a positive test for Subacromial Impingement Syndrome?

Which symptom is often part of a positive test for Subacromial Impingement Syndrome?

• A. Increased range of motion
• B. Painful arc
• C. Asymmetrical shoulder height
• D. Weakness in shoulder abduction

Answer: (B)

A painful arc is a common symptom associated with subacromial impingement syndrome. This phenomenon occurs when a patient experiences pain during a specific range of shoulder movement, typically during abduction from about 60 to 120 degrees. This pattern is often noted during physical examination and serves as a critical indicator of the syndrome. In subacromial impingement syndrome, structures such as the rotator cuff tendons and the subacromial bursa can become compressed or irritated when the shoulder is lifted, especially when the arm is elevated within that painful arc range. This symptom is valuable for clinicians as it helps localize the source of the problem to the subacromial space and guides further assessment and management. In contrast, increased range of motion is generally not associated with this condition; rather, patients typically exhibit limited motion due to pain. Asymmetrical shoulder height can indicate other issues but is not a direct indicator of subacromial impingement. Weakness in shoulder abduction can occur, yet it is not as definitive of the condition as the painful arc sign, which directly correlates with the mechanical impingement experienced during specific movements.

A painful arc is a common symptom associated with subacromial impingement syndrome. This phenomenon occurs when a patient experiences pain during a specific range of shoulder movement, typically during abduction from about 60 to 120 degrees. This pattern is often noted during physical examination and serves as a critical indicator of the syndrome.

In subacromial impingement syndrome, structures such as the rotator cuff tendons and the subacromial bursa can become compressed or irritated when the shoulder is lifted, especially when the arm is elevated within that painful arc range. This symptom is valuable for clinicians as it helps localize the source of the problem to the subacromial space and guides further assessment and management.

In contrast, increased range of motion is generally not associated with this condition; rather, patients typically exhibit limited motion due to pain. Asymmetrical shoulder height can indicate other issues but is not a direct indicator of subacromial impingement. Weakness in shoulder abduction can occur, yet it is not as definitive of the condition as the painful arc sign, which directly correlates with the mechanical impingement experienced during specific movements.