Effects of diaphragmatic mobilization and diaphragmatic breathing exercises on pain, functionality and quality of life in individuals with shoulder pain

This study was aimed to investigate the effects of diaphragmatic mobilization and diaphragmatic breathing exercises on pain, functionality and quality of life in individuals with shoulder pain. A total of 72 individuals with shoulder pain, aged between 18-64 were included in the study. The individuals included in the study were randomly divided into 3 groups as Diaphragmatic Mobilization Group (DMG) (n=24), Diaphragmatic Breathing Group (DBG) (n=24) and control group (n=24). DMG received diaphragmatic mobilization while DBG received diaphragmatic breathing exercises by a physiotherapist in addition to classical physiotherapy during 8 weeks, 3 days in a week. On the other hand, the control group applied only classical physiotherapy applications. The individuals were evaluated in terms of pain, functionality and quality of life before and after the treatment. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and McGill Pain Questionnaire were used to evaluate the severity of pain of the individuals. Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) was used for the level of functionality and Short Form-36 (SF-36) was used to assess for quality of life as well. In addition, pulse and oxygen saturation were evaluated by pulse oximetry, normal range of motion was evaluated by goniometer, and total muscle strength was evaluated by manual muscle strength. In our study, it was observed that the pain level was reduced, the functionality level was increased and the quality of life was improved in all groups (p<0,05). When DMG and DBG were compared with the control group, there was found a significant difference among groups in favor of DMG and DBG in terms of reducing pain, increasing functionality and imroving quality of life (p<0.05). When DMG and DBG were compared, no statistically significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of pain, functionality and quality of life (p>0.05). As a result, diaphragmatic mobilization and diaphragmatic breathing exercises are found to be effective in reducing pain, increasing functionality and improving quality of life in individuals with shoulder pain. For this reason, we think that it would be beneficial to include diaphragmatic mobilization and diaphragmatic breathing exercises in addition to the classical physiotherapy program in the treatment protocols of individuals with shoulder pain.