Evaluation of shoulder joint with neuromechanical methods in patients with rotator cuff syndrome

This study aims to evaluate the effects of rotator cuff syndrome on shoulder kinematics using isokinetic dynamometer and surface electromyography methods in patients diagnosed with unilateral rotator cuff syndrome in our clinic between May 2020 and May 2022. The study aims to compare biomechanical parameters between pathological shoulders and healthy shoulders, and to identify differences between healthy individuals and patients. The study included seven patients with isolated partial supraspinatus tears on one side and a control group of 10 healthy young adults. Mechanical parameters such as maximum torque, power, and work during shoulder isokinetic abduction movement were measured using an isokinetic dynamometer. The electrical activity of the deltoid muscle was recorded using surface EMG. Both devices were used synchronously, and the obtained data were statistically analyzed. The maximum torque, power, and work values obtained during isokinetic abduction movement in the pathological shoulders of patients with RMH did not show a significant difference compared to healthy shoulders and healthy individuals. Additionally, sEMG data did not show a significant difference in deltoid muscle activity in pathological shoulders. These findings indicate that isolated partial supraspinatus tears do not cause significant changes in shoulder kinematics and muscle activity in RMH. The synchronous use of isokinetic dynamometer and sEMG allows for an objective and detailed evaluation of the effects of RMH on shoulder kinematics. The use of these methods in clinical evaluation and treatment processes can contribute to optimizing diagnosis and treatment approaches.