Scapular movement training x conventional exercises for individuals with shoulder pain: randomized controlled trial

• Grant number: 20/00771-0
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: March 01, 2021
• End date: February 28, 2023
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy
• Agreement: Universities New Zealand, Te Pōkai Tara
• Mobility Program: SPRINT - Projetos de pesquisa - Mobilidade
• Principal Investigator: Paula Rezende Camargo
• Grantee: Paula Rezende Camargo
• Principal researcher abroad: Daniel Cury Ribeiro
• Institution abroad: University of Otago, New Zealand
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde (CCBS). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 18/07571-7 - Scapular movement training X conventional exercises for individuals with shoulder pain: randomized controlled trial, AP.R

Abstract

Interventions focused on the scapula have been frequently used to treat shoulder pain. However, most studies do not assess the contribution of scapular movement alteration for the symptoms. Objectives: To compare the effects of two interventions for shoulder pain: Scapular Movement Training and Conventional Exercises. Methods: This is a double-blinded randomized controlled trial. Sixty-four subjects with shoulder pain, scapular dyskinesis and positive scapular assistance test will be randomized in two groups: 1) Scapular Movement Training, and 2) Conventional Exercises. The Group 1 will receive orientation about proper scapular position and movement, and will be trained to modify the scapular movement pattern. The Group 2 will perform scapulothoracic stretching and strengthening exercises. Both groups will be treated twice a week for eight weeks. The following outcomes will be collected at baseline and follow-up: scapular kinematics, electromyographic muscle activity of the upper, middle and lower trapezius, and serratus anterior, as well as pain intensity, function, and fear avoidance beliefs. Also, pain intensity, function, and fear avoidance beliefs will be assessed at fourth week of follow-up after the end of treatment's period. The data distribution will be analyzed with Shapiro-Wilk test. The data with normal distribution will be analyzed with repeated mixed Analysis of Variance. The non-parametric data will be analyzed with related non-parametric tests. The Cohen's d will be calculated to analyze the between-group effect sizes for all outcomes. The significance level will be considered at 5%. (AU)