Subacromial pain syndrome

By | March 4, 2025
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Subacromial Pain Syndrome

What is Subacromial Pain Syndrome?

Subacromial pain syndrome, also known as shoulder impingement syndrome, is a common cause of shoulder pain. It occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles become irritated and inflamed as they pass through the subacromial space, which is the area between the acromion (a bony process on the shoulder blade) and the humeral head (the top of the arm bone).

Symptoms of Subacromial Pain Syndrome

The main symptoms of subacromial pain syndrome include:

  • Pain in the shoulder that worsens with overhead activities
  • Pain that radiates down the arm
  • Weakened shoulder muscles
  • Difficulty reaching behind the back
  • Shoulder stiffness

Treatment Options

Conservative Treatment

Conservative treatment options for subacromial pain syndrome include rest, ice, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications.

Steroid Injections

In some cases, steroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and pain in the shoulder.

Surgery

If conservative treatments do not alleviate the pain, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged tendons in the shoulder.

Prevention

To prevent subacromial pain syndrome, it is important to maintain good posture, avoid repetitive overhead activities, and strengthen the muscles of the shoulder and upper back.

FAQ

1. What causes subacromial pain syndrome?

Subacromial pain syndrome is often caused by overuse of the shoulder, leading to inflammation and irritation of the tendons in the subacromial space.

2. How is subacromial pain syndrome diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made based on a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as x-rays or MRI scans.

3. Can subacromial pain syndrome be cured?

While subacromial pain syndrome can be effectively managed with proper treatment, it may not be completely cured in some cases.

4. What are the risk factors for developing subacromial pain syndrome?

Risk factors include age (more common in individuals over 40), repetitive overhead activities, poor posture, and muscle imbalances.

5. Are there exercises that can help with subacromial pain syndrome?

Yes, exercises that focus on strengthening the rotator cuff muscles and improving shoulder stability can help alleviate symptoms of subacromial pain syndrome.

6. Is surgery always necessary for subacromial pain syndrome?

No, surgery is typically considered only after conservative treatments have failed to provide relief.

7. How long does it take to recover from surgery for subacromial pain syndrome?

Recovery time can vary depending on the type of surgery performed, but most patients can expect to resume normal activities within 6-12 weeks.

8. Can subacromial pain syndrome lead to other shoulder problems?

If left untreated, subacromial pain syndrome can lead to more severe shoulder conditions such as rotator cuff tears or shoulder impingement.

9. Is subacromial pain syndrome more common in athletes?

While athletes who engage in repetitive overhead sports are at a higher risk, subacromial pain syndrome can also affect non-athletes due to everyday activities that strain the shoulder.

10. How can I prevent subacromial pain syndrome from recurring?

Regularly performing shoulder-strengthening exercises, maintaining good posture, and avoiding repetitive overhead activities can help prevent the recurrence of subacromial pain syndrome.

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Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.

📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

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✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

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📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

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📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
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  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.

  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
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  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
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  5. Upload Required Documents

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    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
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🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.

💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

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  • Registration fees
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  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).

🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

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  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
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You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.

🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

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📱 NSFAS Contact Information

📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.

If you need a printable checklist or PDF version of this guide, let me know and I’ll create one for you.