Effect of Scapular Stabilization Exercises with and without Thoracic Mobilization on Neck Pain and Range of Motion in Upper Cross Syndrome

Background: Neck pain is a common musculoskeletal disorder occurring in Upper Cross Syndrome which involves pain and discomfort around the neck region, which causes limitation in activities of daily living and impact the health of an individual and can also be a risk factor for reduced general productivity. Few studies have shown higher evidence in younger adults as a result of sustained exposure to abnormal posture, which increases the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. This intervention aims on the restoration of the muscle imbalance and to reduce pain and increase range of motion. Objective: To study the effect of Scapular Stabilization Exercises with and without Thoracic Mobilization on neck pain and range of motion in Upper Cross Syndrome in young adults. Method: This is a comparative study where 70 subjects were selected as per inclusion and exclusion criteria and assigned to group A (n=35; Exercise group) and group B (n=35; Exercise with Mobilization group) respectively. Scapular stabilization exercises were given to both the groups. The intervention was given for 4 days/week for 4 weeks. Pain and Range of Motion was assessed pre and post intervention using VAS and Goniometer. The data was collected and statistically analysed. Results: Both groups showed (p<0.001) differences in all outcome measures between pre-test and post-test values of Group A and Group B. Results of this study indicated that after 4 weeks of upper thoracic mobilization in addition to scapular stabilization exercises, the Cervical ROM significantly increased in comparison to the scapular stabilization exercise group which in terms of flexion, extension, left and right lateral flexion, and left and right rotation. Conclusion: The study concludes that Thoracic Mobilization along with Scapular Stabilization exercises had a significant effect in reducing pain, increasing flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation range of motion as compared to Scapular stabilization exercises only. Keywords: upper cross syndrome, neck pain, young adults, scapular stabilization exercises, thoracic mobilization, range of motion