Comparison of Cyriax Physiotherapy versus exercise program on pain and range of motion in supraspinatus tendinitis: A comparative study

Pain and dysfunction of the shoulder is common causes of impaired quality of life in the general population. Two per cent of the age group 42-46 years report shoulder pain. Studies from primary care show that 16% of the general population suffers with shoulder pain. This rises to 21% in elderly hospital and community populations. Supraspinatus tendinitis was the most common cause of shoulder pain found in the various studies.(1)

Supraspinatus tendinitis is a common and disabling condition that becomes more prevalent after middle age (2) and is a common cause of shoulder pain (3). A predisposing factor is resistive overuse. The supraspinatus tendon of the rotator cuff is involved and affected tendons of the musculoskeletal system and becomes degenerated, most often as a result of repetitive stresses and overloading during sports or occupational activities.(4) (5) (6)

The supraspinatus muscle is of the greatest practical importance in the rotator cuff, it derives its innervation from the suprascapular nerve and stabilizes the shoulder, externally rotates and helps abduct the arm, by initiating the abduction of the humerus on the scapula(7) Any friction between the tendon and the acromion is normally reduced by the subacromial bursa.Supraspinatus tendinopathy is a common source of shoulder pain in athletes that participate in overhead sports.