Sports Medicine — MCQs

Question 1: Painful arc syndrome is characterized by pain during which movement?

• A. Initial abduction
• B. Terminal abduction
• C. Mid-range abduction (Correct Answer)
• D. Full range of abduction

Explanation: **Explanation:** **Painful Arc Syndrome** is a clinical sign typically associated with **Subacromial Impingement Syndrome**. It occurs when the structures within the subacromial space (most commonly the Supraspinatus tendon or the subacromial bursa) become compressed between the greater tuberosity of the humerus and the acromion process. 1. **Why Mid-range Abduction is Correct:** During abduction, the subacromial space is at its narrowest between **60° and 120°**. In this range, the inflamed or degenerated tendon is pinched against the acromial arch, eliciting sharp pain. This is the "mid-range" of motion. 2. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Initial Abduction (0°–15°):** Pain here usually indicates a complete Supraspinatus tear (inability to initiate) or severe tendonitis, but the subacromial space is not yet maximally compromised. * **Terminal Abduction (120°–180°):** Pain at the very end of abduction is characteristic of **Acromioclavicular (AC) joint arthritis**, not impingement. * **Full Range:** Pain throughout the entire range is more suggestive of adhesive capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder) or acute calcific tendonitis rather than a classic "arc." **Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Neer’s Test and Hawkins-Kennedy Test:** These are the specific clinical provocative tests used to confirm subacromial impingement. * **The "Critical Zone":** The area of the Supraspinatus tendon roughly 1 cm proximal to its insertion is relatively avascular and is the most common site for pathology in this syndrome. * **Management:** Initial treatment is conservative (NSAIDs, PT, subacromial steroid injection). Surgical decompression (Acromioplasty) is reserved for refractory cases.