Scapular Stabilization Exercises Versus Eccentric Muscle Energy Techniques in Patients With Upper Crossed Syndrome

Effects of Scapular Stabilization Exercises Versus Eccentric Muscle Energy Techniques on Pain, Functional Disability and Postural Alignment in Patients With Upper Crossed Syndrome

This study will be a Randomized Clinical Trial in which Scapular Stabilization Exercises and Eccentric Muscle Energy technique will be applied on the individuals with upper crossed syndrome and changes will be recorded using different method and tools. Convenient sampling technique will be used to collect the data. The sample size of 34 patients will be recruited. Patients will be randomly allocated into two different groups through sealed envelope method. 17 patients will be allocated in each group. Group A will be treated with Scapular Stabilization Exercises along with hot pack; Group B will be treated with Eccentric Muscle Energy Technique along with hot pack. Craniovertebral Angle (CVA), Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), and Neck Disability Index (NDI) will be used as Data collecting tools.

Upper Crossed Syndrome is defined byJanda as the involvement of different muscles of skeletal system which leads to shortness and tightness of anterior and upper trunk or weakness of posterior part of skeletal muscles. Alteration of muscles activity such as facilitation of different muscles as levator scapula, sternocleidomastoid, pectoralis muscles and inhibition of cervical flexors, serratus anterior The muscular imbalance occurs because of weak/tight and tonic muscles. Neck pain is the most frequent problem in developed countries. The prevalence of neck pain is approximately 10-15%. Neck pain is the most common reason for patients visiting healthcare professionals. Poor posture typically causes upper cross syndrome (UCS), resulting in neck pain. This syndrome can cause dysfunctional tone in posture and muscular disparity of head, neck and shoulder region.

Inclusion Criteria:

• • Age: participants having range 18-35 years both male and female are included.

  • Craniovertebral angle<52
  • NPRS>3 and NDI>10
  • Patients having neck pain during movements.
  • Patients having neck pain due to sustained posture and after activity

Exclusion Criteria:

• Inflammation malignancy, neurological disorder
• Metabolic disorders
• Neck pain radiating into arms and upper extremity
• Neck pain associated with headache and facial pain
• Recent surgery
• History of recent trauma and fractures of cervical spine
• Patients having any other therapeutic intervention or medical treatment.