Effects of active scapular correction on cervical range of motion, pain, and pressure pain threshold in patients with chronic neck pain and depressed scapula: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Correction of scapular alignment is advocated as a component for alleviating symptoms for patients with neck pain. Objective The study aimed to examine the effect of active scapular correction on cervical range of motion (ROM), pain, and pressure pain threshold (PPT) in patients with chronic neck pain with depressed scapula. Methods A randomized control trial research design was conducted. Twenty-eight participants with chronic neck pain and depressed scapula were randomly assigned to either the intervention (n = 14) or control (n = 14) group. Active cervical rotation ROM, pain at maximum cervical rotation, and PPT over the upper trapezius muscle region were measured at baseline and post active scapular correction. Results The participants in the intervention group showed significantly greater active cervical rotation ROM and less pain at maximum cervical rotation than the control group, both on the ipsilateral (p < 0.01) and contralateral (p < 0.05) sides of the depressed scapula. No significant difference in PPT between the groups was demonstrated (p = 0.194). Conclusion Active scapular correction intervention resulted in an immediate increase in active cervical rotation ROM and a decrease in neck pain at maximum cervical rotation.