Manual Therapy Combined With Breathing

Manual Therapy Combined With Breathing Exercises in Management of Rotator Cuff Impingement Syndrome

Rotator cuff impingement syndrome is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain and functional limitation, with manual therapy frequently employed in its management. This study aimed to investigate the additional effects of incorporating breathing exercises into manual therapy on pain and function.

Rotator cuff impingement syndrome is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain and functional limitation, with manual therapy frequently employed in its management. This study aimed to investigate the additional effects of incorporating breathing exercises into manual therapy on pain and function. The study was conducted with fifty-two individuals aged 18-65 diagnosed with rotator cuff impingement syndrome. Individuals who met the inclusion criteria were randomly and equally assigned to two groups. Participants in the control group received the cold pack, TENS, and conventional exercise program. Participants in the intervention group received manual therapy combined with respiratory exercises in addition to this therapy program. All participants received therapy three times a week for a total of six weeks. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), shoulder range of motion (ROM) assessments, and a spirometer were used for evaluation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• being between 18 and 65 years of age;
• the presence of at least one of the following clinical findings: positive Neer Impingement Test, positive Hawkins-Kennedy Impingement test, or painful arc during active abduction or flexion
• experiencing pain in at least one of the resisted tests for internal rotation, external rotation, abduction, or flexion
• being able to participate in the face-to-face treatment program consisting of a total of 18 sessions

Exclusion Criteria:

• a history of upper extremity fracture; undergoing shoulder surgery on the affected side within the past 12 months
• significant shoulder weakness or loss of active shoulder function; the presence of systemic musculoskeletal disorders
• symptom reproduction during active or passive cervical movements; the presence of consciousness disorders, cognitive impairments; and having any diagnosed cardiovascular disease