Riassunto dello studio

Thirty athletes with primary subacromial impingement syndrome were randomized to receive progressive resistance exercises focusing on either shoulder internal rotation (n=15) or shoulder external rotation (n=15), conducted three times per week over six weeks. A control group of 15 healthy athletes received no intervention. The primary outcome was the change in acromiohumeral distance (AHD), with secondary outcomes including pain reduction (VAS) and upper limb disability (DASH questionnaire scores). Outcomes were assessed at baseline and after six weeks. Overall, both intervention groups showed significant improvements in AHD, pain, and disability (p < .001), with no notable differences between internal and external rotation exercises. These findings suggest both exercise protocols are effective for enhancing AHD and alleviating symptoms in athletes with primary subacromial impingement syndrome.