Effectiveness of scapular mobilization in people with subacromial impingement syndrome: A randomized controlled trial

Scapular mobilization is a manual therapy technique widely used in the management of musculoskeletal disorders of the shoulder.

To determine the effects of scapular mobilization in addition to an exercise program in people with subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS).

Seventy-two adults with SIS were randomly allocated to 1 of 2 groups. The control group (n=36) participated in a 6-week exercise program, and the intervention group (n = 36) participated in the same exercise program plus passive manual scapular mobilization. Both groups were assessed at baseline and 6 weeks (end of treatment). The primary outcome measure was upper limb function assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. Secondary outcome measures were the Constant-Murley questionnaire, pain (visual analog scale [VAS]), and scapular upward rotation.

All participants completed the trial. The between-group difference in DASH was -1.1 points (Cohen d = 0.05; p = 0.911), Constant-Murley 2.1 points (Cohen d = 0.08; p = 0.841), VAS rating of pain at rest -0.1 cm (Cohen d = 0.05; p = 0.684), and VAS rating of pain during movement -0.2 cm (Cohen d = 0.09; p = 0.764); scapular upward rotation at rest (arm by the side) was 0.6° (Cohen d = 0.09; p = 0.237), at 45° shoulder abduction was 0.8° (Cohen d = 0.13; p = 0.096), at 90° was 0.1° (Cohen d = 0.04; p = 0.783), and at 135° was 0.1° (Cohen d = 0.07; p = 0.886). Most differences were in favor of the intervention group; however, the effect sizes were weak and not statistically significant.

In the short-term, the addition of scapular mobilization did not provide significant clinical benefits in terms of function, pain or scapular motion in participants with SIS.

Brazilian registry of clinical trials UTN number U1111-1226-2081. Registered February 25, 2019.