Subacromial syndrome

What is subacromial syndrome?

Subacromial syndrome is a condition that occurs in the shoulder and is characterized by pain, weakness, and limited shoulder movement. It is caused by inflammation of the subacromial space, a small cavity located beneath the acromion (a bony structure in the shoulder) that contains the tendons and ligaments that connect to the shoulder bone (humerus). Inflammation in this space can compress the tendons, causing pain and weakness in the shoulder.

What are the causes of subacromial syndrome?

The cause of subacromial syndrome is multifactorial and is related to several factors that contribute to the compression and inflammation of the subacromial space.

One of the most common causes is age-related wear and tear, due to the loss of elasticity of the tendons and ligaments and increased tissue degeneration.

Another common cause is repetitive strain on the tendons and ligaments due to work or sports activities that require repetitive arm movements, such as lifting weights, throwing a ball, or playing a musical instrument.

The way the shoulder moves is also an important factor. Improper posture or poor technique when performing an activity can increase the risk of developing subacromial syndrome.

In addition, some injuries and other pathologies, such as a fracture in the shoulder bone, a dislocation, tendonitis, or bursitis, can contribute to the development of subacromial syndrome.

In summary, the origin of subacromial syndrome is complex and is related to a combination of factors, such as age-related wear and tear, repetitive strain, posture and technique, and other pathologies or previous injuries.

What are the symptoms of subacromial syndrome?

Common symptoms of subacromial syndrome include shoulder pain, especially when raising or stretching the arm backward, shoulder weakness, and difficulty moving the arm at certain angles. Treatment includes rest, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, ultrasound-guided injections, specific exercises, and, in severe cases, surgery.

How is subacromial syndrome diagnosed?

The diagnosis of subacromial syndrome is based on a combination of symptoms, clinical history, physical findings, and the results of additional tests (x-ray, ultrasound, and/or MRI) and is usually made by an orthopedic and trauma specialist.

The first step in diagnosis is a detailed patient history, which includes questions about symptoms, duration of symptoms, and any triggering factors or activities that may have contributed to the symptoms.

• A physical examination is essential for the diagnosis of subacromial syndrome. The doctor may assess shoulder mobility, shoulder strength, and the presence of shoulder pain or discomfort when moving the shoulder.
• X-rays and MRIs are also studies that help confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.

How is subacromial syndrome treated?

Treatment is primarily conservative and focuses on relieving symptoms and improving shoulder function. Treatments include:

• Medications: Pain relievers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help relieve pain and inflammation.
• Ultrasound-guided injections: This is a medical technique used to treat musculoskeletal pain. It involves injecting medications (such as corticosteroids) into a specific area of the body, guided by ultrasound. This allows for greater precision in injection placement, reduces the risk of side effects, and improves the effectiveness of the treatment. (See article on suprascapular nerve block and ultrasound-guided injection of the subacromial bursa of the shoulder)
• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is an essential treatment for subacromial syndrome. Strengthening and stretching exercises are essential to improve shoulder mobility and function. Massage techniques and manual therapy can also be used to relieve inflammation and tension in the tendons and muscles.(See stretching and strengthening exercises for Subacromial Syndrome)
• Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding or reducing activities that cause shoulder pain and discomfort, modifying improper posture or techniques, and ensuring good posture in general.

In severe cases, where conservative treatment has not been effective, surgical treatment may be necessary. However, surgery is only considered a last resort, as most cases can be successfully treated with conservative treatments.

Make an appointment with Dr. Jordi Jiménez. He will see you in the center of Palma and help you regain your quality of life.