Comparative Effectiveness of Brugger’s Exercise and Scapular Wall Slides on Upper Cross Syndrome in Women with Sedentary Lifestyle: A Pilot Study

Abstract Context: Upper Cross Syndrome is characterized by forward head posture, rounded shoulders, and increased thoracic kyphosis, resulting from muscular imbalances between the tight upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and pectoralis muscles and the weak deep cervical flexors, rhomboids, and lower trapezius. Brügger’s Exercise: Aims to correct postural imbalances by activating the deep neck flexors and scapular retractors, thereby reducing muscle tightness and promoting an upright posture. Scapular Wall Slides: Focuses on improving scapular stability, mobility, and muscular endurance by engaging the lower trapezius and serratus anterior, which play a crucial role in shoulder biomechanics and posture correction. Aims: Both Brügger’s Exercise and Scapular Wall Slides are used for postural correction and scapular mobility improvement, but their comparative effectiveness remains unexplored in sedentary women with UCS. Brügger’s Exercise focuses on postural realignment, while Scapular Wall Slides enhance scapular stability and movement. Identifying the more effective intervention will help in designing targeted physiotherapy programs. This study is essential to provide evidence-based recommendations for pain reduction, posture correction, and functional improvement in sedentary women. The findings can contribute to physiotherapy protocols, ergonomic guidelines, and preventive care strategies, helping improve overall musculoskeletal health. Settings and Design: Comparative Study. Methods and Material: A comparative study was conducted with 10 female participants meeting inclusion criteria. VAS was used for pain assessment and CVA for posture. Pre- and post-intervention values were recorded and analysed. Statistical analysis used: Microsoft Excel Results: A paired t-test was used for statistical analysis (CI 95%, p < 0.05). Data was collected at baseline and after four weeks of intervention. Conclusions: The study shows that 4 weeks of bruggers exercise was more effective when compared with scapular wall slides in reducing pain and elevating posture in women with sedentary lifestyle dealing with upper cross syndrome.