Article

Parallel-group intervention with repeated measures. INTRODUCTION:
Shortening of the pectoralis minor (PM) may contribute to alterations in scapular kinematics. PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: To evaluate the effects of a stretching
protocol on function, muscle length, and scapular kinematics in subjects with and
without shoulder pain. METHODS: A sample of 25 patients with shoulder pain and 25 healthy subjects with PM tightness performed a daily stretching protocol for 6
weeks. Outcome measures included Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand
questionnaire, PM length, and scapular kinematics. RESULTS: Disabilities of the
Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores decreased (P < .05) in the patient group at
post-intervention. No differences (P > .05) were found for PM length in both
groups. Scapular anterior tilt increased (P < .05) at 90 degrees of flexion in
the healthy group. DISCUSSION: This study demonstrated that a daily home
stretching protocol significantly decreases pain and improves function in
subjects with shoulder pain. The mechanism responsible for these improvements
does not appear directly related to PM muscle length or scapula kinematics,
suggesting that other neuromuscular mechanisms are involved. CONCLUSION: The PM
stretching protocol did not change the PM length or scapular kinematics in
subjects with or without shoulder pain. However, pain and function of the upper
limbs improved in patients with shoulder pain. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 2b.
CI - Copyright (c) 2016 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights
reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS