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Comparison of Niel-Asher and Spencer Techniques in Frozen Shoulder Patients
Sponsor: Riphah International University
Summary
This study aims to compare the effectiveness of two manual therapy techniques-Niel-Asher Technique and Spencer Technique-when combined with conventional physiotherapy in treating patients with frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis). Frozen shoulder is a painful condition that limits movement and function of the shoulder joint. The study will include 44 adults aged 35 to 65 years who have been diagnosed with stage II frozen shoulder. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. Both groups will receive standard physiotherapy, including heat therapy, TENS, and stretching exercises. In addition, one group will receive the Niel-Asher Technique, while the other group will receive the Spencer Technique. Pain, range of motion, and shoulder function will be measured before and after a 4-week treatment period using validated tools such as the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), a goniometer, and the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI). The goal is to determine which manual therapy technique is more effective in improving symptoms and function in patients with frozen shoulder.
Official title: Effects of Niel-Asher Technique Versus Spencer Technique Along With Conventional Therapy on Pain, Range of Motion, and Functional Status in Frozen Shoulder Patients
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
35 Years - 65 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
44
Start Date
2025-07
Completion Date
2025-11-30
Last Updated
2025-07-23
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Niel-Asher Technique
Participants in this group will receive the Niel-Asher Technique, a manual therapy approach focusing on trigger point release and myofascial decompression of the shoulder girdle. Treatment will involve structured pressure techniques applied to specific muscular trigger points including the infraspinatus, supraspinatus, subscapularis, and levator scapulae. The intervention will be delivered in side-lying and sitting positions. Conventional physiotherapy, includes a 10-minute hot pack, 15-minute TENS, Codman exercises, finger ladder exercises (2-3 sets, 3-5 repetitions), and capsular stretching (20-30 sec hold, 2-4 repetitions). Sessions will be conducted 3 times per week for 4 weeks.
Spencer Technique
Participants in this group will receive the Spencer Technique, an osteopathic manual therapy consisting of eight mobilization steps: extension, flexion, circumduction with compression, circumduction with distraction, abduction, adduction with external rotation, internal rotation, and traction stretch. Each movement will be performed with patient participation using muscle energy techniques. Conventional physiotherapy, includes a 10-minute hot pack, 15-minute TENS, Codman exercises, finger ladder exercises (2-3 sets, 3-5 repetitions), and capsular stretching (20-30 sec hold, 2-4 repetitions). Sessions will be conducted 3 times per week for 4 weeks.
Locations (1)
Noor Thalassemia Foundation
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan