Clinical Research Directory

Participants in the experimental group will receive a combination of latissimus dorsi myofascial release (MFR) and scapular proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) using the hold-relax technique. Myofascial release will be applied to the latissimus dorsi muscle with the patient positioned in side-lying (affected side up) or supine with the shoulder in flexion. The therapist will apply slow, sustained pressure along the posterior axillary fold and lateral border of the scapula, following the muscle fibers toward the thoracolumbar fascia. The technique will include sustained pressure, longitudinal gliding, and passive shoulder elevation until a tissue resistance barrier is reached. Each stretch will be maintained for 90-120 seconds, with a total MFR duration of approximately 10-15 minutes per session. Following MFR, scapular PNF will be performed using the posterior elevation to anterior depression pattern. The hold-relax technique will involve isometric contractions of 5-7 seco

Participants in the control group will receive scapular proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) using the hold-relax technique without the addition of myofascial release. The intervention will follow the scapular posterior elevation to anterior depression pattern. Each repetition will include an isometric contraction lasting 5-7 seconds followed by a passive stretch of 10-15 seconds. A total of 3 sets with 5 repetitions per set will be performed in each session, with an overall duration of approximately 20 minutes. In addition, a hot pack will be applied to the affected area for 10-15 minutes prior to the exercise session to promote muscle relaxation. Treatment sessions will be conducted three times per week for a duration of 6 weeks.