الفهرس | Only 14 pages are availabe for public view |
Abstract Background: Although passive scapular correction and exercise programs yields positive effects for regaining periscapular muscular function, and hence affect neural tissue mechanosensitivity, further exercise programs need to be investigated. Purpose: The current study aimed to assess the effect of scapular upward rotation exercises on neural tissue mechanosensitivity in depressed scapular alignment subjects. Methods: Thirty subjects classified as depressed scapular alignment were recruited through screening test into a pre-test post-test single group experimental study design. Brachial plexus mechanosensitivity, on the side classified as having depressed scapular alignment, was assessed pre-test and post-test utilizing 1) strength duration curve, both motor and sensory on the nerve to trapezius, 2) upper limb neurodynamic test assessing symptoms response in terms of pain intensity and quality, and 3) pain pressure threshold using pressure algometer over the peripheral nerve trunks of the upper limb, the upper trapezius muscle and cervical zygapophyseal joints. All patients received intervention in the form of scapular upward rotation exercises for 6 weeks, 3 days per week. Results: As compared to pre-treatment values, there was a significant increase in post-treatment sensory and motor Rheobase values and a significant decrease in post-treatment sensory and motor chronaxie values (p < 0.001). In the upper limb neurodynamic test, there was a significant decrease in pain intensity of median, ulnar and radial nerves (p < 0.001). There was a significant improvement in pain quality of median, ulnar and radial nerves (p < 0.001). The study showed that there was a significant increase in pain pressure threshold (PPT) (p < 0.001). The percent of increase in PPT of median nerve, ulnar nerve, radial nerve, upper trapezius, C2/C3 and C5/C6 zygapophyseal joints were 81.85%, 93.38%, 92.68%, 87.54%, 76.32% and 69.66 % respectively. Conclusion: These results suggest that scapular upward rotation exercises reduce irritability of neural tissues in subjects with scapular downward rotation syndrome (SDR), through regaining optimal scapular function and posture that reduces neuromuscular tenderness in subjects with SDR. |