Immediate Effect of Grade III / IV Maitland Mobilization Techniques Versus Scapular Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation and Glenohumeral Mobilization in Adhesive Capsulitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective: Aim of the study was to determine immediate effect on pain, ROM, scapular dyskinesia and functional disability in adhesive capsulitis (AC) either after grade III/IV Maitland mobilization or scapular PNF and GH mobilization. Methods: A RCT of 60 participants with AC, aged 40-65 years, ranged 3-9 months. They were divided into viz. Experimental group which received grade III/IV Maitland mobilization and Active Control group which received scapular PNF and GH mobilization. Both groups received TENS and moist heat before treatment session. Data was measured using Visual Analog Scale, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire; GH ROM, Lateral Scapular Slide Test pre-treatment and immediately at 1 week treatment follow up. Results: Both groups showed statistically significant difference in post intervention and post 1 week follow-up within the group except for internal and external rotation ROM in Active Control group. Post 1 week follow-up between groups analysis showed that there was statistically significant difference in internal rotation ROM (p<0.041) in Active Control group. Conclusion: Scapular mobilization with Maitland GH mobilization and scapular PNF with Maitland GH mobilization are both effective in improving pain, functional disability, ROM and scapular dyskinesis in patients with AC but the effect size is small.