Effects of a Trunk Stabilization Exercise with Gym Ball on Scapular Position for Patients with Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

Abstract

Purpose: The present study was to investigate effects of scapular position and pain on a trunk stabilization exercise with gym ball for patients with arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Methods: Subjects were patients after 2 weeks of rotator cuff repairs. Subjects were randomly assigned to conservative treatment group (CTG, n=10) or trunk stabilization with gym ball group (SBG, n=10), and participated one of those groups for 2 weeks. Measurements about pain and scapular position were assessed in before and after treatment programs. Results: Pain reduced in both rest and night in SBG compared to CTG. In the case of scapular position, decreased scapular retraction (increased protraction) was found in CTG and vice versa in SBG. Reduced scapular anterior tilting was also found on SBG. Conclusion: The present study showed that early performed trunk stabilization with gym ball could bring a scapular alignment that increases subacromial space and reduces pain. This suggests early trunk stabilization with gym ball programs to restore shoulder functions for patients with rotator cuff repair.