Effects of a Scapular-focused Exercise Protocol

Rotator Cuff Syndrome of Shoulder and Allied Disorders Clinical Trial

Official title: Effects of a Scapular-focused Exercise Protocol for Patients With Rotator Cuff Related Pain Syndrome - a Randomized Clinical Trial

Status Completed

Clinical Trial Summary

Background: Current clinical practice still lacks consistent evidence in the physiotherapy management of Rotator cuff related pain syndrome (RCS). The purpose of this trial was to compare the effectiveness of a scapular-focused treatment with and without real-time electromyographic biofeedback (EMGBF) to a control therapy in patients with RCS.

Methods: 60 patients with RCS were divided into three groups: scapular-focused exercise protocol group (P_G n=20), scapular-focused exercise protocol with EMGBF group (P+EMGBF_G n=20) and control therapy group (CT_G n=20). Values of pain and function [Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) questionnaire, complemented by the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire], scapular stabilizer neuromuscular control (SSNC), scapular stabilizer activation onset (SSAO), dynamic scapular alignment, range of motion (ROM) and glenohumeral flexor and abductor muscle strength (GMS) were assessed at baseline and after 6-weeks and compared within and between groups.

Clinical Trial Description

In order to advance the understanding of the value of scapular-focused exercise for rotator cuff related syndrome, a new trial was designed with the main objective of comparing pain and function outcomes between three different treatment protocols for patients with RCS:

P_G - Scapular-focused exercise protocol without electromyographic biofeedback (EMGBF) P+EMGBF_G - Scapular-focused exercise protocol supported by real-time EMGBF CT_G - Control therapy group with manual therapy (glenohumeral joint physiologic and accessory mobilization) , massage to reduce upper trapezius (UT) stiffness, and shoulder rotation strengthening into external rotation Every outcomes was assessed at the beginning of treatment, and then, weekly until completed 6 weeks of treatment. ;

Related Conditions & MeSH terms

• Rotator Cuff Syndrome of Shoulder and Allied Disorders
• Syndrome

• NCT number: NCT05516186
• Study type: Interventional
• Source: NOVA School of Science and Technology i FCT NOVA
• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Start date: May 9, 2022
• Completion date: July 25, 2022