Myofascial Release of the Pectoral Fascia

Myofascial Release of the Pectoral Fascia: Effect on Shoulder Posture, Muscle Length, Muscle Activity, and Movement Performance

Neck-shoulder pain is among the most common health care problems, especially in office workers and females. Forward shoulder posture (FSP) is a common postural deviation and known risk factor for the development of neck-shoulder pain and pathology. Common approaches for reducing FSP include stretching and performing manual techniques to increase the length and extensibility of the scapular protractors, and strengthening the scapular retractors. Myofascial release (MFR) is a group of manual techniques that elongate and soften restricted fascia, however, the effects of myofascial release to the pectorals on FSP are currently unknown. The objectives of this study are to determine the impact of 4-minutes of MFR on: 1) FSP, 2) pectoral length, 3) muscle activity of the upper, middle, and lower trapezius and pectoralis major, 4) scapular retractor to protractor ratio of activity, and 4) movement performance compared to a soft-touch control. We hypothesize that MFR will: 1) decrease FSP, 2) increase pectoral length, 3) increase upper, middle, and lower trapezius activity and decrease pectorals major activity, 4) increase the scapular retractor to protractor ratio of activity, and 4) improve movement performance.

Inclusion Criteria:

• have 1 cm of anterior deviation of the acromion process (forward shoulder posture)
• right handed

Exclusion Criteria:

• recent history (<6 months) of neck, shoulder, or upper back pain
• recent history (<6 months) of neck, shoulder, or upper back injury/pathology
• history of orthopaedic or neurological disorders