National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) Practice Exam

What is shoulder impingement characterized by?

1. Rubbing of rotator cuff tendons against the acromion during arm elevation

2. Painful restriction of shoulder movement

3. Inflammation of the shoulder joint

4. Weakness in the shoulder muscles

The correct answer is: Rubbing of rotator cuff tendons against the acromion during arm elevation

Shoulder impingement is characterized by the rubbing or friction of the rotator cuff tendons against the acromion, especially during arm elevation. This occurs because the space under the acromion narrows during certain movements, causing the tendons to be compressed or pinched. As a result, this condition can lead to pain and limited range of motion during activities that involve lifting the arm overhead. Understanding this mechanism is crucial because it highlights the anatomical interactions at the shoulder joint and helps in recognizing the underlying causes of pain and dysfunction associated with shoulder impingement. The other options, while they may be associated with shoulder discomfort, do not specifically define shoulder impingement as accurately. For instance, while painful restriction of shoulder movement is a symptom and can be a consequence of impingement, it does not directly describe the mechanics of the condition itself. Similarly, inflammation of the shoulder joint addresses another possible issue but is not exclusive to impingement. Lastly, weakness in the shoulder muscles may result from or exacerbate impingement but is not a characteristic trait of the condition.