Physiotutors Lecture: Shoulder Impingement and the Painful Arc Test

Introduction

• Welcome back from the summer break and first internship.
• Introduction to the Shoulder Impingement Playlist.
• Focus on the Painful Arc Syndrome or Painful Arc Test.

Understanding Subacromial Shoulder Impingement

• Occurs during arm abduction when the glenohumeral joint should glide downwards.
• In subacromial impingement, the gliding is impaired:
  • The major tubercle collides with the acromion.
  • Results in squeezing of structures like:
    • Supraspinatus tendon
    • Coracoid ligaments
  • Causes pain.

Painful Arc Test

• Sensitivity: 53%
• Specificity: 76%
• Source: Hedgedus review, 2012.

Performing the Test

• Patient is asked to abduct arms slowly with thumbs pointing upwards.
• Pain Range Indications:
  • 60-120 degrees of abduction: Indicates subacromial impingement.
  • 170-180 degrees of abduction: Could indicate an acromioclavicular problem.

Conclusion

• The Painful Arc Test is crucial for diagnosing subacromial shoulder impingement.
• Encouragement to like, share, and subscribe to the channel.
• Suggestion to check out other videos about shoulder impingement tests.

Note: This lecture emphasizes one of the most common tests for diagnosing shoulder issues, offering practical guidance on performing and interpreting the test results.