This study found that subacromial distances were usually smallest below 70° of humerothoracic elevation.

In subjects with decreased scapulothoracic upward rotation, the minimum subacromial distance was about 35% smaller with the arm by the side and the range of subacromial rotator cuff contact was shifted to lower angles.

Despite this, subacromial contact during movement only occurred in 45% of participants, which may indicate that subacromial rotator cuff compression may be less common than traditionally presumed.