Year: 2023 | Month: December | Volume: 13 | Issue: 12 | Pages: 12-18
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20231202
Efficacy of Scapular Stabilization Exercises on Reduced Thoracic Expansion in Patients with Upper Crossed Syndrome
Sarabjeet1, Shyamal Koley2
1Assistant Professor, Department of Physiotherapy, University School of Allied Health Sciences, Rayat Bahra University, Mohali, India
2Professor and Head, Department of Physiotherapy, University School of Allied Health Sciences, Rayat Bahra University, Mohali, India
Corresponding Author: Shyamal Koley
ABSTRACT
Background: Upper-Crossed Syndrome (UCS) is also referred to as proximal or shoulder girdle crossed syndrome. In UCS, tightness of the upper trapezius and levator scapula on the dorsal side crosses with tightness of the pectoralis major and minor. Weakness of the deep cervical flexors ventrally crosses with weakness of the middle and lower trapezius. This imbalance leads to reduced thoracic expansion with difficulty in breathing and altered body posture. In the present study an attempt has been made to compare the efficacy of scapular stabilization exercises and conventional neck exercises in patients with UCS.
Materials and Method: A total of 30 purposively selected confirmed cases of UCS aged 18-50 years, collected from the OPD of DAV Institute of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Jalandhar, India, were considered for the present study. The subjects were further divided into two groups for intervention. Group-A consisted of 15 subjects who were treated with hot pack, TENS and scapular stabilization exercises for 5 times per week for 2 weeks. Group-B consisted of 15 subjects who were treated with hot pack, TENS and conventional exercises for 5 times per week for 2 weeks.
Results: The results of the present study revealed that within- group changes in NDI, thoracic expansions (Axillary, Midsternal and Xiphisternum), pectoral minor muscle lengthening were statistically significant in group-A. On the other hand, between Group-A and B, there was a statistically significant difference for the above-mentioned traits, showing the superior result in Group-A.
Conclusion: It could be concluded from the present study that, scapular stabilization were more effective for reduced thoracic expansion in patients with UCS. Thoracic expansion and pectoral minor flexibility were increased with the help of scapular stabilization exercises. Scapular stabilization exercises showed significantly positive effect on NDI scores.
Key words: Upper Crossed Syndrome, Muscle activity, Scapular Stabilization exercises, Conventional neck exercises.