A Comparative Study of the Effects of Maitland and Kaltenborn Mobilization Techniques on Shoulder Range of Motion, Function, and Pain in Patients with Idiopathic Frozen Shoulder

Background: Idiopathic frozen shoulder is a common musculoskeletal disorder characterized by progressive pain, reduced shoulder range of motion (ROM), and functional disability. Manual therapy techniques, such as Maitland and Kaltenborn mobilizations, are commonly employed to improve joint mobility, reduce pain, and restore function. However, direct comparisons between these two techniques remain limited. Objective: To compare the effects of Maitland and Kaltenborn mobilization techniques on shoulder ROM, pain intensity, and functional disability in patients with idiopathic frozen shoulder. Methods: A quasi-experimental, two-arm study was conducted on 98 participants diagnosed with idiopathic frozen shoulder. Participants were divided into two groups: Group A (n = 49) received Kaltenborn mobilization, and Group B (n = 49) received Maitland mobilization. Both groups also received standardized conventional physiotherapy and hot pack therapy over a 2-week period (3 sessions per week). Pain was assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), function using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), and ROM using a universal goniometer. Pre- and post-intervention scores were compared within and between groups using Wilcoxon signed-rank and Mann-Whitney U tests. Results: Both groups demonstrated statistically significant improvements (p < 0.001) in pain, SPADI scores, and shoulder ROM after the intervention. However, no significant differences were found between the groups in post-intervention NPRS, SPADI, or ROM scores (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Both Maitland and Kaltenborn mobilization techniques are effective in improving shoulder ROM, reducing pain, and enhancing function in patients with idiopathic frozen shoulder. Neither technique was found to be superior, suggesting that either may be appropriately chosen based on clinician expertise and patient response.