Subacromial impingement syndrome (SAIS) is a condition that results in pain and disability of the shoulder.

Umer et al. 2012 characterised it as “a spectrum of pathology ranging from subacromial bursitis to rotator cuff tendinopathy and full-thickness rotator cuff tears”.

The condition is caused by compression of the supraspinatus tendon (one of four rotator cuff muscles) beneath the acromion (a bony projection on the top of the shoulder blade) and its involvement with the subacromial bursae (a fluid-filled sack). This can occur when the arm is elevated above the head for prolonged periods through work or sport or when there is an excessive narrowing of the space between the subacromial space due to bony growths (osteophytes), inflammation of the tendon (tendonitis, or if chronic tendinopathy) and/or inflammation of the bursae (known as bursitis).

Diagnosis can be made with simple orthopaedic testing within the clinic, although we can use our ultrasound scanner if required within the clinic or refer one to one of our partners for X-ray or MRI scans. Very occasionally, if a patient fails to respond to treatment, it will require us to refer the patient to one of our Shoulder Orthopaedic Specialist partners.

SAIS can be treated effectively with physiotherapy and osteopathy. Occasionally, when the pain does not subside in a timely fashion, a steroid injection into the subacromial space can provide a window of opportunity for rehabilitation and a quick reduction in pain. Rehabilitation is an integral part of treatment and can help restore shoulder movement and strength.

We will have a steady flow of patients with this diagnosis at any one time in the clinic. If you would like to discuss SIAS treatment options, please call the clinic to arrange a clinician call back.

Research Papers:

Umer et al. 20102 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3395987/

Osteopathy in Sussex