PATTERNS OF SCAPULA STABILIZATION EXERCISES FOR IMPROVING UPPER EXTREMITY FUNCTION AND SCAPULAR ALIGNMENT IN PATIENTS WITH STROKE: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Background - Scapula stabilizing exercises used for improving shoulder function in patients with stroke has been reported in literature. However there is diversity in pattern of these exercises which makes it difficult to choose specific exercise and its impact on upper extremity function and scapular malalignment cannot be estimated appropriately. Hence it was aimed to explore different patterns of Scapular Stabilizing Exercises and its effect on scapular malalignment and upper limb function. Methods- Four databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane, Science Direct) were searched to identify eligible studies using the keywords Scapula stabilizing exercise, Stroke. Only Randomized controlled trial studies published in last 10 years (2010-2020) were included in this review. Results- Thorough search identified six studies conducted on patients with sub-acute and chronic stroke. Scapular stabilising exercises were described in different positions supine lying, sitting with different movements being performed patients. Its effect on upper extremity function is measured with specific outcome measures. However its effect on scapular malalignment is not measured.  Conclusion – There is diversity in the description of exercises though a common terminology as ‘Scapular Stabilizing Exercise’ is used in all research studies. In addition, the effect of these exercises on scapular malalignment is not assessed in any of the studies included in the current review