Does the pectoralis minor length influence acromiohumeral distance, shoulder pain-function, and range of movement?

Abstract

ObjectiveTo determine the association between pectoralis minor length (PML) and the acromiohumeral distance (AHD) in the symptomatic (S) and the asymptomatic (A) shoulder of subjects with chronic shoulder pain, and in shoulder free of pain controls (C). Furthermore, to analyze the relationship between PML and shoulder pain-function and range of movement (ROM) free of pain. DesignA cross sectional study. SettingPrimary care centres. ParticipantsA sample of fifty-four participants with chronic shoulder pain in their dominant arm was recruited, as well as fifty-four participants with shoulder free of pain. Main outcome measuresPML test and AHD measured by ultrasound. ResultsThere was a non statistical significant correlation between PML and AHD for all the groups at both 0° (S = 0.03, p = 0.29; A = 0.06, p = 0.66; C = −0.17, p = 0.29) and 60° (S = −0.10, p = 0.84; A = −0.18, p = 0.19; C = −0.03, p = 0.84) of shoulder elevation. Likewise, there was a non statistical significant correlation between PML and shoulder pain-function (0.09, p = 0.52), and ROM (−0.13, p = 0.35). ConclusionsPML is poorly associated with AHD, as well as with shoulder pain and mobility, in people with chronic shoulder pain. Other biomechanics alterations, as well as the presence of central/peripheral sensitization should be considered.