The Use of Osteopathic Manual Therapy and Rehabilitation for Subacromial Impingement Syndrome: A Case Report

Abstract

Rotator cuff dysfunction is common in athletes involved with overhead sports. Secondary subacromial impingement is a common cause of pain for patients with rotator cuff dysfunction. Exercise rehabilitation and manual therapy can be used in the treatment of subacromial impingement to decrease pain, increase functionality and support a return to activity. The current case report describes a 24-year-old patient with supraspinatus tendinosis and secondary subacromial impingement who was experiencing pain when playing tennis, and during daily activities involving overhead movements. Osteopathic manual therapy and rehabilitation was undertaken leading to significant improvements in pain and function over a six-week period. The current case report describes an evidence-informed approach to the management of subacromial impingement syndrome whilst incorporating a manual therapy technique, balanced ligamentous tension, that has received little attention in the literature.