Effect OF Blackburn Stabilization Exercises In Patients With Subacromial Impingement Syndrome

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS) is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain and functional limitation. Scapular stabilization exercises, particularly the Blackburn stabilization exercise program, have been proposed to improve shoulder function by enhancing scapular stability and movement coordination.

AIM: To investigate the effects of Blackburn stabilization exercises on shoulder pain, function, and shoulder elevation range of motion (ROM) in patients with subacromial impingement syndrome.

METHODS: A single arm clinical trial study was conducted on 15 patients with unilateral SIS . Participants underwent a 6-week Blackburn stabilization exercise program. Pain and Function were assessed using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), and shoulder elevation ROM was measured at baseline, after 3 weeks, and after 6 weeks. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA.

RESULTS: Significant improvements were observed in SPADI scores and shoulder elevation ROM after both 3 and 6 weeks of intervention, with greater improvements evident at 6 weeks. These findings indicate progressive clinical benefits associated with the Blackburn stabilization exercise program.

CONCLUSION: Blackburn stabilization exercises were effective in improving shoulder pain, function, and shoulder elevation ROM in patients with SIS. These findings support the use  of Blackburn stabilization exercises as rehabilitation programs for patients with SIS.