Effects of scapular mobilizations in improving external range of motion in frozen shoulder

Abstract

Background: The coordinated and combined movement of 2 parts gleno-humeral to 1 part of scapulo-thoracic movement adds to normal shoulder elevation range. It was later accepted as 2:1 ratio between Gleno-humeral elevation and scapulo-thoracic upward rotation and this kinematics interaction is known as “scapulo-humeral rhythm”. Along with many other techniques to improve shoulder range of motion the scapulothoracic mobilizations are helpful specially in improving external rotation of shoulder.

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of scapular mobilizations in improving external rotation range of motion (ROM) in frozen shoulder

Methods: It is a cross sectional study conducted in physiotherapy department- Ittefaq hospital, Lahore which was carried out over a period of 6 months from approval of synopsis. 51 patients of age 35 to 65 years with symptoms of frozen shoulder from at least 3-4 months were included in this study. Patients with any surgical history, trauma or psychological conditions were excluded from the study. A semi structured questionnaire was administered and pre-treatment and post treatment were recorded and documented by the physical therapist.

Results: The results show that external rotation (ER) after scapulothoracic mobilizations improved, with mean value before treatment recorded to be 43.4314 degrees with S.D 11.067 degrees and 83.6863 degrees with S.D 12.394 degrees post treatment. Wilcoxen Sign Rank test showed significant different between the two measurements.

Conclusion: Patients had their external rotation range of motion improved after sessions of scapulothoracic mobilizations sessions provided by the physical therapist, thereby improving the functional outcomes of patients.

Keywords: External rotation; Frozen shoulder, Scapulothoracic mobilization