Effectiveness of Scapular Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) Techniques in Adhesive Capsulitis of the Shoulder Joint

Background: Adhesive capsulitis is a benign, self –limiting condition of unknown etiology characterized by painful and limited active and passive glenohumeral range of motion at least two directions most notably shoulder abduction and external rotation. The treatment of adhesive capsulitis aims at reducing pain, and improvement in the shoulder range of motion, scapular dyskinesis, and functional activities. Therapeutic ultrasound, LASER, wax therapy, Interferential therapy and joint mobilization has long played an important role in the treatment of adhesive capsulitis; however treatment involving Scapular PNF techniques for management of adhesive capsulitis are limited to this date.

Objectives: To compare the effectiveness of Scapular PNF with conventional physiotherapy in subjects with adhesive capsulitis.

Study design: Experimental study design and comparative type. Procedure: 24 subjects, 12 subjects in group a received Scapular PNF along with wax bath therapy, stretching, and shoulder mobilization exercises with pre and posttest. And 12 subjects in group B received only the wax bath therapy, stretching and shoulder mobilization exercises with pre and posttest.

Outcome measures: Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Lateral Scapular Slide Test (LSST), Goniometer, and simple shoulder test questionnaire.

Results: statistical analysis was done by using paired “t” test which showed more significant improvement in group A.

Conclusion: Scapular PNF techniques with wax bath therapy, stretching and shoulder mobilization exercises has shown significant result in reduction of pain and improvement in the shoulder range of motion, scapular dyskinesis and functional activities in subjects with adhesive capsulitis.

Author(s): Prasanna KJ, Rajeswari R and Sivakuma VPR

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