The purpose of this study was to compare the use of 3 mobilization techniques-end-range mobilization (ERM), mid-range mobilization (MRM), and mobilization with movement (MWM)-in the management of subjects with frozen shoulder syndrome (FSS). Twenty-eight subjects with FSS were recruited to partake in a multiple-treatment trial on 2 groups. The duration of each treatment was 3 weeks, for a total of 12 weeks. Outcome measures included the functional score and shoulder kinematics. Overall, subjects in both groups improved over the 12 weeks. Statistically significant improvements were found in ERM and MWM. Additionally, MWM corrected scapulohumeral rhythm significantly better than ERM did. In subjects with FSS, ERM and MWM were more effective than MRM in increasing mobility and functional ability. Movement strategies in terms of scapulohumeral rhythm improved after 3 weeks of MWM.
Physical Therapy, online article ahead of print, August 2007