Effect of Spencer’s Muscle Energy Technique Versus Capsular Stretch on Pain, ROM and Functional Disability in Patients with Adhesive Capsulitis - An Experimental Study

Background & Objective: Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a common, idiopathic, and self-limiting condition marked by severe pain and restricted active and passive shoulder movement. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Spencer’s Muscle Energy Technique (MET) and capsular stretching on pain, range of motion (ROM), and functional disability in patients with adhesive capsulitis. Materials & Methods: A total of 36 participants aged 35–65 years were divided into three groups (n=12 each). Group A (control) received conventional treatment only. Group B received Spencer MET with conventional treatment, while Group C received capsular stretch with conventional treatment. Interventions were administered over 3 weeks, 5 days per week. Outcome measures included pain intensity (NPRS), shoulder ROM, and functional disability (SPADI score), assessed pre- and post-treatment. Results: Paired t-tests evaluated within-group differences, while ANOVA assessed between-group effects. Both Group B and Group C showed significant improvements in all outcome measures post-treatment. However, no statistically significant difference was found between the two experimental groups. Conclusion: The study concludes that both Spencer MET and capsular stretching are effective in reducing pain, improving ROM, and decreasing disability in adhesive capsulitis. However, Spencer MET showed comparatively greater effectiveness across all parameters, suggesting it may be the preferable technique in clinical practice.