Effect of Scapular-Focused Interventions on Pain and Disability in Neck Pain With Mobility Deficits: A Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Physical Therapy
• Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation
• Clinical Biomechanics

Background:

• Neck pain with mobility deficits is a common condition impacting daily function.
• The role of scapular muscle function in neck pain is increasingly recognized.
• Understanding the isolated effects of targeted interventions is crucial for effective treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the isolated effect of scapular-focused interventions on pain and disability in individuals with neck pain and mobility deficits.
• To compare the efficacy of scapular-focused interventions versus neck-focused exercises.
• To assess the impact on pressure pain threshold (PPT) in specific muscle groups.

Main Methods:

• 108 participants with neck pain and mobility deficits were randomized into two groups.
• Experimental group: scapular-focused interventions (lower/middle trapezius, serratus anterior).
• Control group: neck-focused exercises. Both groups underwent 12 weeks of treatment (6 supervised, 6 unsupervised). Pain, disability, and PPT were measured at baseline, 6, and 12 weeks.

Main Results:

• Both groups showed significant improvements in pain and disability over time.
• Scapular interventions led to significantly greater improvements in PPT at the levator scapulae and upper trapezius compared to neck exercises.
• Significant group × time interaction observed for PPT improvement, indicating a superior effect of scapular interventions.

Conclusions:

• Isolated scapular-focused interventions are as effective as neck exercises for reducing pain and disability.
• Scapular interventions demonstrate superior effectiveness in improving PPT in individuals with neck pain and mobility deficits.
• These findings support the integration of scapular strengthening into rehabilitation programs for neck pain.