The effect of scapular stabilization exercises and scapular proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation technique on pain, joint range of motion, functionality, scapular dyskinesia and proprioception in individuals with rotator cuff lesion

This study was conducted to compare the effects of Scapular Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) techniques and Scapular Stabilization exercises on pain, range of motion, functionality, scapular dyskinesis, and proprioception in individuals with rotator cuff lesions. A total of 30 volunteer participants, aged between 18 and 65 years and diagnosed with a rotator cuff lesion with shoulder pain, were included in the study. The Scapular Stabilization group (n=15) received scapular stabilization exercises in addition to conventional treatment, while the PNF group (n=15) received scapular PNF patterns and techniques in addition to conventional treatment.In this study, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was used to evaluate the pain severity of individuals, a universal goniometer was used to measure joint range of motion, and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire (DASH) was used to assess functional status. Scapular dyskinesia was evaluated using the Lateral Scapular Shift Test (LSKT) and Scapular Dyskinesia Test (SDT), while proprioception was assessed using the Active Angle Repetition Test. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using SPSS V.27 software. As a result of the study, a statistically significant improvement was observed in pain, normal joint range of motion, shoulder function, the presence of scapular dyskinesia, and proprioception in the intra-group evaluations of both groups (p<0.05). However, when intergroup comparisons were made, it was found that improvements in pain, normal joint range of motion, and functional status were similar in both groups (p>0.05). On the other hand, scapular PNF patterns and techniques applied alongside conventional treatment were found to be a more effective method for improving scapular dyskinesia and proprioception compared to scapular stabilization exercises combined with conventional treatment (p<0.05). Keywords: Proprioception; Rotator Cuff Lesion; Scapula; Scapular PNF Technique; Scapular Stabilization Exercise.