Shoulder Abduction Range Of Motion Research Articles

Passive shoulder abduction range of motion at 3 months postoperatively is the most important prognostic factor for achieving full recovery of range of motion at 6 months after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair

BackgroundAfter arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR), it is crucial for clinicians to predict the functional recovery in the early postoperative period for considering rehabilitation strategies. The aim of this study was to identify the prognostic factors in the early postoperative period for achieving full recovery of range of motion (ROM) at six months after ARCR. MethodsThis study included 184 patients who underwent ARCR. Patients were divided into the full recovery and nonrecovery groups using the Constant ROM score at six months postoperatively. The area under the curve (AUC) for predicting the full recovery group was calculated for all independent variables such as demographic data, ROM, shoulder functional scores at preoperative and three months postoperative using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was then performed using candidate variables with an AUC of 0.7 or greater to determine prognostic factors for full recovery at six months postoperatively. The same analysis as above was also performed by dividing the patients into groups according to their preoperative ROM. ResultsMultivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that preoperative active flexion, three months postoperative passive abduction, and internal rotation at 90° abduction ROM were significant prognostic factors of achieving full ROM recovery at six months postoperatively. Only passive abduction ROM at three months postoperatively was significantly extracted in the preoperative ROM limitation group. ConclusionsThis study demonstrated that passive abduction ROM at three months postoperatively was a significant prognostic factor of achieving full recovery of ROM at six months after ARCR.

Comparison of Shoulder Abduction Range of Motion in Glenohumeral Joint in Individuals with and without Myofascial Trigger Points in the Upper Trapezius

Comparison of Shoulder Abduction Range of Motion in Glenohumeral Joint in Individuals with and without Myofascial Trigger Points in the Upper Trapezius

Posterior division of ipsilateral C7 transfer to C5 for shoulder abduction limitation.

Reparation of C5 by proximal selective ipsilateral C7 transfer has been reported for the treatment of neurogenic shoulder abduction limitation as an alternative to the reparation of the suprascapular nerve (SSN) and the axillary nerve (AXN) by distal nerve transfers. However, there is a lack of evidence to support either strategy leading to better outcomes based on long-term follow-up. The purpose of the study was to investigate the safety and long-term outcomes of the posterior division of ipsilateral C7 (PDIC7) transfer to C5 in treating neurogenic shoulder abduction limitation. A total of 27 cases with limited shoulder abduction caused by C5 injury (24 cases of trauma, 2 cases of neuritis, and 1 case of iatrogenic injury) underwent PDIC7 transfer to the C5 root. A total of 12 cases (11 cases of trauma and 1 case of neuritis) of C5 injury underwent spinal accessory nerve (SAN) transfer to SSN plus the triceps muscular branch of the radial nerve (TMBRN) transfer to AXN. The patients were followed up for at least 12 months for muscle strength and shoulder abduction range of motion (ROM). In cases that underwent PDIC7 transfer, the average shoulder abduction was 105.9° at the 12-month follow-up. In total, 26 of 27 patients recovered at least M3 (13 reached M4) (Medical Research Council Grading) of the deltoid. In cases that underwent SAN transfer to SSN plus TMBRN to AXN, the average shoulder abduction was 84.6° at the 12-month follow-up. In total, 11 of 12 patients recovered at least M3 (4 reached M4) of the deltoid. Posterior division of ipsilateral C7 transfer is a one-stage, safe, and effective surgical procedure for patients with neurogenic shoulder abduction limitation.

Characteristics of Postoperative Patients with Breast Cancer Aged 65 Years and Older.

Objective: This study aimed to compare postoperative patients with breast cancer aged ≥65 years with those aged <65 years and clarify the characteristics of postoperative patients with breast cancer aged ≥65. Methods: In total, 376 patients in whom we were able to evaluate survey items one month after surgery were included in the study. Comorbidity, including diabetes mellitus and hypertension, shoulder range of motion (ROM), upper-limb function, and psychological problems, was evaluated. Results: Hypertension and diabetes mellitus were significantly higher in patients aged ≥65 years (the elderly group) than in those aged <65 years (the non-elderly group) (p < 0.05). Preoperative shoulder flexion ROM was significantly restricted in the elderly group compared with the non-elderly group (p < 0.05). Preoperative shoulder abduction ROM was significantly restricted in the elderly group compared with the non-elderly group (p < 0.05). At one month after surgery, upper-limb function was more impaired in the non-elderly group than in the elderly group (p < 0.05). In both groups, both ROM and upper-limb function were significantly impaired one month after surgery compared with before surgery (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Postoperative patients with breast cancer aged ≥65 years should be careful about risk management and intervention during rehabilitation. Preoperative evaluation of shoulder ROM should be performed because patients aged ≥65 years have limited ROM before surgery.

Real-Time Muscle Activity and Joint Range of Motion Monitor to Improve Shoulder Pain Rehabilitation in Wheelchair Basketball Players: A Non-Randomized Clinical Study.

Wheelchair basketball (WB) involves sports gestures that expose the shoulder to high biomechanical stress and frequently lead to shoulder pain (SP). Due to their physical peculiarities and sporting performance, these athletes require specific rehabilitation programs that are as fast, personalized and effective as possible. However, there are few studies specifically dedicated to these purposes. Surface electromyography (sEMG) seems a promising tool for better customization and achieving more targeted rehabilitation results. The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of sEMG to monitor SP rehabilitation outcomes in WB players. Thirty-three athletes were enrolled in this non-randomized clinical study and divided into two groups. Both groups underwent a shoulder rehabilitation protocol, but only the experimental group was monitored in real time with sEMG on the shoulders. At enrollment (T0), at the end of 4 weeks of the rehabilitation program (T1), and 8 weeks after T1 (T2), the following outcome measures were collected: Wheelchair User's Shoulder Pain Index (WUSPI), 20 m straight line test, shoulder abduction range of motion (ROM). There was a statistically significant difference for WUSPI and ROM scores in the comparison between groups (p &lt; 0.001), and for all outcomes in the comparison between times and in the interaction between time and group (p &lt; 0.001). Therefore, the experimental group showed a better improvement at all detection times compared to the control group. sEMG seems a useful tool for improving the monitoring of SP rehabilitation outcomes in WB players. This monitoring speeds up and improves the rehabilitative results, limiting the risk of sport abandonment and increasing the possibility for people with disabilities to quickly return to practice physical activity.

A comparative analysis of titanium anatomic plate and titanium reconstructive plate for treatment of extra-articular fractures of the scapula (Miller types IIb, IIc, and IV).

Because of the irregular shape of the scapula and the different types of fractures, a standard internal fixation device is lacking in clinical practice, even though there are many options available. This study aimed to compare the therapeutic efficacy of titanium anatomic and reconstructive plates for extra-articular fractures of the scapula (Miller types IIb, IIc, and IV). A retrospective study of 41 patients who underwent treatment for extra-articular fractures of the scapula between March 2017 and March 2020 was conducted. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the fixation device: titanium anatomic plate group (20 patients) and titanium reconstructive plate group (21 patients). After follow-up for 12-18 months, the general characteristics, perioperative characteristics, postoperative follow-up findings, and imaging data of the 2 groups were compared. The surgical procedures were uneventful in both groups. The anatomic plate group significantly outperformed the reconstructive plate group with respect to surgical duration and intraoperative blood loss (P<.001). At 3-month postoperative follow-up, the Constant-Murley score (P=.026), shoulder flexion range of motion, and shoulder abduction range of motion in the anatomic plate group were all significantly better than those in the reconstructive plate group (P<.001). The postoperative Western Ontario Shoulder Instability scores of the 2 groups were similar. Imaging showed functional recovery and stable and reliable fixation in both groups. Time to bone union was similar in both groups (9.10±1.25 weeks in anatomic plate group and 9.24±1.41 weeks in reconstructive plate group, P=.742). No complications occurred in any patient, such as fixation failure, instability, or bone nonunion. Surgeons should favorably consider titanium anatomic plates for the treatment of extra-articular scapular fractures owing to their clear efficacy associated with a shorter surgical time, less intraoperative blood loss, better fixation, and rapid short-term functional recovery.

Comparison of single platelet-rich plasma injection with hyaluronic acid injection for partial-thickness rotator cuff tears.

Partial-thickness rotator cuff tears (PTRCTs) is not uncommon, and various nonsurgical injection therapy for PTRCTs emerged. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and hyaluronic acid (HA) injection were proposed for treating PTRCTs; however, the relation of dose among injectates was still lacking. This was a prospective, nonrandomized, comparative study. The aim of the study was to compare the effects of ultrasound-guided single PRP injection with three doses of HA injection, combination of postinjection rehabilitation, for treating PTRCTs. Subjects received either ultrasound-guided PRP injection and rehabilitation exercise, or ultrasound-guided subacromial HA injection and rehabilitation exercise. Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), range of motion (ROM), pain visual analog scale (VAS), and Constant-Murley Shoulder Score (CMSS) were recorded before injection, and at 1 and 3 months after injection. Forty-eight patients were enrolled. They received either ultrasound-guided single PRP (n = 24) intralesional and peritendinous injection or three doses of HA (n = 24) subacromial injection plus rehabilitation exercise. In the PRP group, SPADI scores, VAS scores, CMSS significantly improved at 1-month and 3-month follow up; flexion and abduction ROM significantly increased at 3-month follow up. In the HA group, SPADI scores, VAS during overhead activities, VAS night pain, and CMSS significantly improved in the first and third months; flexion and active abduction ROM significantly increased in the third month. The PRP group revealed significantly better passive abduction ROM and CMSS at third month than HA group. Ultrasound-guided single PRP injection exhibited comparable benefit to three doses of HA injection in patients with PTRCTs short-termly, with an extended effect regarding passive shoulder abduction ROM and CMSS.

Use of a Portable Inertial Measurement Unit as an Evaluation Method for Supraspinatus Muscle: Proposed Normative Values

Treatment protocols do not specify an appropriate weight for rehabilitating the shoulder joint. The purpose of this study was to establish normative values for the shoulder abduction range of motion and recommended weights to be used in the rehabilitation process after injury to the supraspinatus muscle. Fifty-eight volunteers were assessed using the DyCare system. A test was conducted by lifting the arm to a 90° angle and having the participants lift different weights. The range of motion was similar for both sexes, suggesting that sex had no influence on this variable. Regarding the use of weights, men did not show as much stability in their movement execution, with a high dispersion seen in values between zero and three kilograms of weight, reaching a maximum weight of six kilograms. However, women showed good joint stability from the beginning of the test, with values that remained constant as weight increased up to a maximum of five kilograms. In conclusion, no major differences were observed in supraspinatus muscle injury recovery according to sex. However, differences were observed in the amount of weight that was necessary and appropriate to allow the participants to recover their muscular strength and avoid relapses.

Ultrasound-Guided BoNT-A (Botulinum Toxin A) Injection Into the Subscapularis for Hemiplegic Shoulder Pain: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

This study aimed to assess the efficacy of an ultrasound-guided lateral approach for BoNT-A (botulinum toxin A) injections into the subscapularis in patients with hemiplegic shoulder pain. This single-center trial used a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design. The key inclusion criteria were a visual analogue scale score of ≥4 cm and a modified Ashworth scale score of ≥1+. The patients were randomized to receive either BoNT-A injections or a placebo. The outcomes included the visual analogue scale score, modified Ashworth scale score, pain-free passive range of motion of the hemiplegic shoulder, Fugl-Meyer assessment score for the upper extremities, and Stroke-Specific Quality-of-Life score. A total of 49 hemiplegic shoulder pain patients were screened, and 36 were included. The participants receiving the BoNT-A injection reported a significant decrease in pain (visual analogue scale, -1.39 [95% CI, -2.41 to -0.36]; P=0.002) and spasticity (modified Ashworth scale score for shoulder internal rotation, -0.72 [95% CI, -1.10 to -0.35]; P=0.001; modified Ashworth scale score for shoulder abduction, -0.44 [95% CI, -0.90 to -0.01]; P=0.026) and improved pain-free passive shoulder internal rotation range of motion (14.56 [95% CI, 6.70-21.41]; P<0.001) and quality of life (Stroke-Specific Quality-of-Life upper extremity subscale, P=0.025) compared with those receiving the placebo at the end point. The shoulder abduction range of motion did not significantly improve after the BoNT-A injection at the end point (P=0.127). In addition, the patients in the BoNT-A group showed significant improvements in the visual analogue scale score and shoulder external rotation range of motion at the 12-week follow-up. No injection-related adverse events were observed during or after the interventions in either group. The ultrasound-guided lateral approach for BoNT-A injections into the subscapularis is a precise and reliable method for reducing pain and spasticity and improving quality of life in stroke survivors with hemiplegic shoulder pain. Registration: URL: https://www.chictr.org.cn; Unique identifier: ChiCTR1900023513.

Correlation between Shoulder Range of Motion, Upper Extremity Disability and Quality of Life in Female Breast Cancer Survivors Post Modified Radical Mastectomy: A Pilot Study

Background: Many complications may occur after modified radical mastectomy (MRM) such as restricted shoulder mobility, wound infection, seroma formation, pain and lymph edema. Purpose: To find the correlation between shoulder flexion and abduction range of motion (ROM) with upper extremity disability and quality of life in female post MRM. Methodology: A cross section observation study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital. A total of 20 breast cancer survivors who underwent MRM before 6 months or more were included. Their affected side shoulder flexion and abduction ROM was measured using universal goniometer, upper extremity disability was assessed using Upper Extremity Functional Index (UEFI) and Quality of Life was assessed using WHOQoL-BREF questionnaire. Results: Karl Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to find the correlation. Strong positive correlation was found between shoulder flexion ROM and UEFI score, physical, psychological and environmental domains, whereas moderate positive correlation was found between shoulder flexion ROM and overall QoL, these were statistically significant (p&lt;0.001). But there was weak positive correlation found between shoulder flexion ROM and social domain of WHOQoL-BREF which was statistically not significant (p&gt;0.001). Further strong positive correlation was found between shoulder abduction ROM and UEFI score, overall Qol, physical and psychological domain and moderate positive correlation was found between shoulder abduction ROM and environmental domain whereas again weak positive correlation found with social domain which was statistically not significant (p&gt;0.001). Conclusion: Decreased shoulder ROM can increase upper extremity disability and affect overall QoL in breast cancer survivors post MRM. Keywords: Breast cancer survivors, Modified Radical Mastectomy, Quality of Life, Shoulder ROM, Upper extremity disability.

The association of breast cancer-related lymphedema after unilateral mastectomy with shoulder girdle kinematics and upper extremity function

The purpose of this study was to examine the association of breast cancer-related lymphedema on shoulder girdle kinematics and upper extremity function. The study included 67 breast cancer survivors with and without unilateral lymphedema. Individuals were divided into non-lymphedema, moderate and severe lymphedema groups according to the volumetric measurement difference between the affected and unaffected upper extremities. A three-dimensional motion monitor-electromagnetic system was used to analyze scapular movements during the elevation and depression phases of the upper extremity elevation in the scapular plane. Shoulder range of motion was assessed with a digital inclinometer. Upper extremity function was assessed with the ‘Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire–Short Form (Quick-DASH)’. The scapular upward rotation was lower for the severe lymphedema group than for the non-lymphedema group in the 90–60–30° depression phases of arm elevation (p < .05). The scapular anterior tilt was higher for the severe lymphedema group than for the non-lymphedema group in the 30° depression phase of arm elevation (p < .05). Shoulder abduction range of motion was the lowest in the severe lymphedema group (p < .05). The non-lymphedema group had the lowest quick-DASH score and the severe lymphedema group had the highest score (p < .05). There were statistically significant moderate associations between the quick-DASH scores and scapular movements in all groups (p < .05). The development, presence and/or severity of lymphedema were associated with impaired shoulder-girdle kinematics and decreased upper extremity function. However, a need exists for longitudinal studies comparing individuals with and without lymphedema and healthy controls.

Effectiveness of aerobic exercise on upper limb function following breast cancer treatment: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Aerobic exercise is currently considered to be an effective method of rehabilitation in breast cancer patients. Studies have shown that aerobic exercise after breast cancer surgery can improve upper limb function, cardiopulmonary function, and quality of life. Breast cancer rehabilitation guidelines encourage patients to actively participate in aerobic exercise to promote rehabilitation, the current study is to evaluate the effectiveness of aerobic exercise on upper limb muscle strength and range of motion (ROM) following breast cancer treatment. Electronic databases (Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCO and Embase) were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published before September 1, 2019, using the search terms "aerobic exercise", "exercise", "breast cancer", "muscle strength", "strength", "flexibility" and "function". Grip strength and shoulder joint ROM were used to evaluate upper limb strength and upper limb flexibility respectively. All statistical tests were performed using RevMan5.3 software. Nine RCTs (421 patients) were included for analysis, with JBI scores ranging from 19 to 23, and bias grade B for all studies among which, there were six studies reported change in grip strength, and five studies reported change in shoulder joint ROM. Meta-analysis showed a statistically significant difference in shoulder flexion ROM (MD =4.97, 95% CI: 0.47-9.46, P=0.03), shoulder abduction ROM (MD =8.95, 95% CI: 0.99-16.91, P=0.03), shoulder internal rotation ROM (MD =3.45, 95% CI: 1.80-5.09, P<0.0001), shoulder external rotation ROM (MD =7.69, 95% CI: 0.06-15.32, P=0.05) between the intervention and control groups following completion of the aerobic exercise intervention, while there were no significant improvement with respect to grip strength and shoulder extension ROM (P>0.05). Aerobic exercise could improve shoulder joint ROM in breast cancer survivors, but shows no obvious effect on the improvement of upper limb strength.

Associations between wheelchair user’s shoulder pain index and tendinitis in the long head of the biceps tendon among female wheelchair basketball players from the Japanese national team

BackgroundAmong injuries in wheelchair athletes, shoulder injury is the most common. An easy and valid assessment tool is required to monitor the shoulder status in wheelchair athletes anytime. The present study aimed to investigate the association of wheelchair user’s shoulder pain index (WUSPI) with physical examinations for tendinitis in the long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) and range of motion (ROM) of shoulder movements among female wheelchair basketball players from the Japanese national team. MethodsA total of 21 female players (mean age, 32.0 ± 7.9 years) participated in this study. LHBT tendinitis was assessed using findings of tenderness in the bicipital groove point (TBGP) and speed test. Shoulder ROMs were evaluated in three movements—namely, abduction, flexion, and extension. ResultsThe mean total WUSPI score was 9.55 ± 13.35 points. The players were more likely to experience shoulder pain during activities related to wheelchair pushing and object lifting. A higher total WUSPI score was strongly and moderately associated with positive findings of TBGP (effect size r = 0.82) and speed test (r = 0.49), respectively. Furthermore, the total WUSPI score was significantly associated with limited ROM in shoulder abduction (r = 0.47) and flexion (r = 0.43). Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed that the total WUSPI score had a significant area under the curve (AUC) for positive findings of TBGP (AUC = 0.98), speed test (AUC = 0.83), and limited ROM in abduction (AUC = 0.84). When optimal cut-points were set by the Youden index, total WUSPI scores of 4.1 points (sensitivity = 1.00, specificity = 0.92), 11.3 points (sensitivity = 0.80, specificity = 0.81), and 3.3 points (sensitivity = 1.00, specificity = 0.65) were recommended for screening positive findings of TBGP, speed test, and limited ROM in abduction, respectively. ConclusionTBGP, which is a major finding of LHBT tendinitis, was strongly associated with the total WUSPI score in physical examinations. Hence, pain assessed by WUSPI could reflect the presence of LHBT tendinitis. The WUSPI is a superior tool for monitoring the shoulder status of wheelchair basketball players.

AB1310-HPR EFFECTS OF INSTRUMENT-ASSISTED SOFT TISSUE MOBILIZATION ON FROZEN SHOULDER: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

Background:Frozen shoulder has a greater incidence, more severe course, and resistance to treatment in patients. Management is based on the underlying cause of pain and stiffness. Joint mobilization has been reported to improve joint range of motion in frozen shoulder. However, there is no information regarding the effect of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) in frozen shoulder. We proposed that there would be no significant difference between the two manual physical therapy techniques with relatively similar treatment effects in the frozen shoulder.Objectives:The aim of this randomized controlled study was to compare the effectiveness of IASTM and joint mobilization in the treatment of patients with frozen shoulder.Methods:Thirty patients with phase II frozen shoulder (mean age 50,9 years, age range 39–65 years) were randomly assigned to one of the two treatment groups: Group I received joint mobilization combined with manual stretching exercise and Group II received IASTM with manual stretching exercise (two days per week for six weeks) (Figure 1). The pain level was evaluated with a visual analogue scale (VAS) and the active range of motion (ROM) was measured with a universal goniometer. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score and the Constant-Murley score were used for functional assessment. The assessments were performed at baseline and after the 6-week intervention.Figure 1.Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue MobilizationResults:Both groups had a significant decrease in pain according to VAS and a significant increase in ROM and function level (p&lt;0.05). After the 6-week intervention, improvement of shoulder abduction ROM in Group I was found significantly higher than Group II (p=0.01), on the other hand, Constant-Murley score in Group II was found significantly higher compared to Group I (p=0,001).Conclusion:Our results supported the hypothesis that either joint mobilization or IASTM, performed in addition to stretching exercise, provided similar improvements in pain levels in patients with the frozen shoulder.

Clinical and functional results of patients after arthroscopic single row rotator cuff repair and arthroscopic acromioplasty

Aim: The present study aims to evaluate clinical and functional results of arthroscopic single row rotator cuff repair and acromioplasty in patients with Rotator cuff tears (RCT). Materials and Methods: Sixty one patients whom were applied arthroscopic single row rotator cuff repair and arthroscopic acromioplasty between 2016 and 2019 were included in the present study. Patients’ rotator cuff tears (Patte classification) and acromion were classified based on X-ray and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) results. In addition, patients’ Constant Murley Scores, Shoulder Range of Motion (ROM) and visual analogue scale (VAS) scores were also analyzed prior to and following the surgical operation. Results: Forty one (67.2%) out of 61 patients in the present study were applied surgery on the right shoulders, while 20 of them (32.8%) were applied surgery on the left shoulders. Twenty one (34.4%) of patients were male, while 40 (65.6%) of them were female. Patients were divided into three groups as type 1 (n=10), type 2 (n=41), type 3 (n=10) based on their acromion classification and three stages as stage 1 (n= 15), stage 2 (n=36), and stage 3 (n=10) based on their rotator cuff tears. In addition, while their mean preoperative Constant-Murley and VAS scores were 29.8±0.79 and 9.14±0.11, respectively, it increased to 81.1±1.07 and decreased to 2.06±1.07 in the postoperative period, respectively. Finally, while patients’ preoperative mean abduction ROM was 60.73°±1.31°, it increased to 126.22°±2.27° in the postoperative period. Conclusion: Arthroscopic single row rotator cuff repair and arthroscopic acromioplasty in patients suffering from RCT contributes to significant relief of pain and remarkable increase in shoulder abduction ROM, thus offering an effective and reliable surgical treatment which allows the active use of extremities.

Clavicle hook plate versus distal clavicle locking plate for Neer type II distal clavicle fractures

BackgroundThe purpose of this meta-analysis was to compare clavicle hook plates versus distal clavicle locking plates for the treatment of Neer type II distal clavicle fractures.MethodsPubMed (1996 to January 2019), Embase (1980 to January 2019), Web of Science (1990 to January 2019), the Cochrane Library (January 2019), and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (January 2019) were systematically searched without language restrictions for literature retrieval. The Constant-Murley shoulder joint function score at 3 and 6 months after the operation and the postoperative complications after the operation (shoulder joint pain, abduction restriction, fracture delay healing, subacromial impingement) were the outcomes. Stata 12.0 was used for the meta-analysis.ResultsA total of 9 clinical trials involving 446 patients were finally included in this meta-analysis. The results showed that the improvement in the Constant-Murley shoulder joint function score in the distal locking plate group was better than that in the clavicle hook plate group at 3 and 6 months after the operation (P < 0.05). There were fewer cases of shoulder joint pain and restricted shoulder abduction range of motion in the distal locking plate group, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in fracture delay healing and subacromial impingement between the two groups (P > 0.05).ConclusionCompared with the clavicular hook plate, the distal clavicle locking plate for the treatment of Neer type II distal clavicle fractures is associated with better shoulder function recovery and fewer complications related to pain and abduction restriction.

Assessment of posterior shoulder muscle stiffness related to posterior shoulder tightness in college baseball players using shear wave elastography

Limitations of shoulder range of motion (ROM) have been reported to be at high risk for shoulder disorders in baseball players. In this study, we assessed posterior shoulder muscle stiffness using shear wave elastography in baseball players with and without posterior shoulder tightness. In total, 21 college baseball players volunteered to participate in this study. Passive ROMs for shoulder abduction and horizontal adduction were measured using a goniometer. Subsequently, we divided all participants into 2 groups based on the differences between bilateral shoulder ROMs: STIFF+and STIFF-groups. Thickness and elasticity of the posterior and inferior shoulder muscles were assessed using ultrasound. Shoulder abduction ROM on the throwing side was 114.5° ± 5.3° and 131.3° ± 5.7° in the STIFF+and STIFF-groups, respectively, which was significantly different between the 2 groups (P= .023). Horizontal adduction ROM on the throwing side was 96.6° ± 4.9° and 110.9° ± 4.8° in the STIFF+and STIFF-groups, respectively, which was also significantly different between the 2 groups (P = .014). The elasticity of infraspinatus and lower trapezius in the STIFF+group was significantly greater than that in the STIFF-group (P = .018 and .033, respectively). In this study, we found that the elasticity of infraspinatus and lower trapezius in stiff shoulders was significantly greater than that in nonstiff shoulders, which indicated that the infraspinatus and lower trapezius could be the key muscles in posterior shoulder tightness.

Shoulder Taping and Neuromuscular Control.

Scapular taping can offer clinical benefit to some patients with shoulder pain; however, the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Understanding these mechanisms may guide the development of treatment strategies for managing neuromusculoskeletal shoulder conditions. To examine the mechanisms underpinning the benefits of scapular taping. Descriptive laboratory study. University laboratory. A total of 15 individuals (8 men, 7 women; age = 31.0 ± 12.4 years, height = 170.9 ± 7.6 cm, mass = 73.8 ± 14.4 kg) with no history of shoulder pain. Scapular taping. Surface electromyography (EMG) was used to assess the (1) magnitude and onset of contraction of the upper trapezius (UT), lower trapezius (LT), and serratus anterior relative to the contraction of the middle deltoid during active shoulder flexion and abduction and (2) corticomotor excitability (amplitude of motor-evoked potentials from transcranial magnetic stimulation) of these muscles at rest and during isometric abduction. Active shoulder-flexion and shoulder-abduction range of motion were also evaluated. All outcomes were measured before taping, immediately after taping, 24 hours after taping with the original tape on, and 24 hours after taping with the tape removed. Onset of contractions occurred earlier immediately after taping than before taping during abduction for the UT (34.18 ± 118.91 milliseconds and 93.95 ± 106.33 milliseconds, respectively, after middle deltoid contraction; P = .02) and during flexion for the LT (110.02 ± 109.83 milliseconds and 5.94 ± 92.35 milliseconds, respectively, before middle deltoid contraction; P = .06). These changes were not maintained 24 hours after taping. Mean motor-evoked potential onset of the middle deltoid was earlier at 24 hours after taping (tape on = 7.20 ± 4.33 milliseconds) than before taping (8.71 ± 5.24 milliseconds, P = .008). We observed no differences in peak root mean square EMG activity or corticomotor excitability of the scapular muscles among any time frames. Scapular taping was associated with the earlier onset of UT and LT contractions during shoulder abduction and flexion, respectively. Altered corticomotor excitability did not underpin earlier EMG onsets of activity after taping in this sample. Our findings suggested that the optimal time to engage in rehabilitative exercises to facilitate onset of trapezius contractions during shoulder movements may be immediately after tape application.

Assessing the influence of a passive, upper extremity exoskeletal vest for tasks requiring arm elevation: Part II – “Unexpected” effects on shoulder motion, balance, and spine loading

Adopting a new technology (exoskeletal vest designed to support overhead work) in the workplace can be challenging since the technology may pose unexpected safety and health consequences. A prototype exoskeletal vest was evaluated for potential unexpected consequences with a set of evaluation tests for: usability (especially, donning & doffing), shoulder range of motion (ROM), postural control, slip & trip risks, and spine loading during overhead work simulations. Donning/doffing the vest was easily done by a wearer alone. The vest reduced the max. shoulder abduction ROM by ∼10%, and increased the mean center of pressure velocity in the anteroposterior direction by ∼12%. However, vest use had minimal influences on trip-/slip-related fall risks during level walking, and significantly reduced spine loadings (up to ∼30%) especially during the drilling task. Use of an exoskeletal vest can be beneficial, yet the current evaluation tests should be expanded for more comprehensiveness, to enable the safe adoption of the technology.

The Effect of Yoga on Arm Volume, Strength, and Range of Motion in Women at Risk for Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema

To assess the feasibility, safety, and initial estimates of efficacy of a yoga program in postoperative care for women at high risk for breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL). Single-group pretest-post-test design. Patients were recruited from the University of California, San Francisco Carol Franc Buck Breast Care Center. Twenty-one women were enrolled in the study. Women were >18 years of age, had undergone surgical treatment for breast cancer, and were at high risk for BCRL. The women participated in an Ashtanga yoga intervention for 8 weeks. Sessions consisted of once/week instructor-led practice and once/week home practice. Particular attention was given to poses that emphasized upper body strength and flexibility, while avoiding significant time with the upper extremity (UE) in a dependent position. UE volume was assessed through circumferential forearm measurement, which was converted to volume using the formula for a truncated cone. Range of motion (ROM) was assessed for the shoulders, elbows, and wrists, using a standard goniometer. UE strength was assessed for shoulder abduction, elbow flexion, wrist flexion, and grip using a dynamometer. Twenty women completed the yoga intervention, with 17 returning for final assessment. Mean age was 52 (±9.1) years and body mass index was 24.8 (±5.1) kg/m2. Postintervention, mean volume in the at-risk UE was slightly reduced (p = 0.397). ROM for shoulder flexion (p < 0.01) and external rotation (p < 0.05) significantly increased bilaterally. Shoulder abduction ROM significantly improved for the unaffected limb (p = 0.001). Following intervention, strength improved on the affected side for shoulder abduction and grip strength, and bilaterally for elbow flexion (p < 0.05 for all). These preliminary findings suggest that yoga is feasible and safe for women who are at risk for BCRL and may result in small improvements in shoulder ROM and UE strength.