Comparison between abdominal core muscle strength in males with and without frozen shoulder: A pilot study

Abstract

Background: The impact of adhesive capsulitis starts from the structures surrounding the shoulder complex and extends to overall deconditioning and affects neuromuscular control due to reduced daily living activities which may be passed along further in the kinetic chain. Context: Studies show there may be a certain link between core muscle activation and shoulder function, however, the literature is scanty in this regard. Aims: To compare the abdominal core muscle strength in males with and without frozen shoulder. Settings and Design: In this observational comparative study, 20 males (40-60 yrs) from a tertiary care hospital visiting the physiotherapy department for the treatment of frozen shoulder were included along with age, Body Mass Index (BMI) and Waist to Hip Ratio (WHR) matched healthy controls. Methods and Material: Abdominal core muscle strength was measured using a pressure biofeedback unit while progressive limb loading was performed. Statistical analysis used: The ordinal data was compared using SPSS Version 24 and Man Whitney U and Wilcoxon W were obtained. Results: The abdominal core muscle strength of male patients with frozen shoulder was weaker compared with healthy controls (p > 0.0001) Conclusions: The abdominal core muscle strength was significantly weaker in the males with frozen shoulder compared to age, BMI and WHR matched healthy controls. Thus Inclusion of core muscle strengthening in the rehabilitation of patients with frozen shoulder may lead to better outcomes in rehabilitation.