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Scapular Stabilization Exercises Combined With Thoracic Mobilization in Breast Feeding Mothers With Upper Back Pain
Sponsor: University of Lahore
Summary
Upper-back pain is common among breastfeeding mothers and may be associated with prolonged feeding positions, forward-bent posture, reduced thoracic mobility, and weakness of the muscles controlling the shoulder blades. This study will compare scapular stabilization exercises combined with thoracic spine mobilization with scapular stabilization exercises alone in breastfeeding mothers experiencing upper-back pain. Seventy eligible breastfeeding mothers aged 18-35 years will be assigned to one of two treatment groups. Both groups will receive scapular stabilization exercises, while one group will additionally receive thoracic mobilization performed by a trained physiotherapist. Treatment will be provided three times per week for eight weeks. Pain intensity, functional ability, and spinal range of motion will be assessed at baseline, Week 4, and Week 8. The study aims to determine whether adding thoracic mobilization to scapular stabilization exercises provides greater improvement in pain, mobility, and daily functioning than scapular stabilization exercises alone.
Key Details
Gender
FEMALE
Age Range
18 Years - 35 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
70
Start Date
2026-02-24
Completion Date
2026-07-21
Last Updated
2026-08-14
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Conditions
Interventions
Scapular Stabilization Exercises
Participants will perform a structured scapular stabilization programme three times per week for eight weeks. Each session will include scapular retraction and depression, serratus anterior punches, wall slides, and prone horizontal abduction with scapular setting. Exercises will be performed in three sets of 10-12 repetitions, with 5-second holds where appropriate. The programme will be progressively advanced every two weeks by increasing repetitions and introducing resistance bands. Sessions will include a standardized warm-up and stretching of the upper trapezius and levator scapulae.
Thoracic Spine Mobilization
A trained physiotherapist will administer manual mobilization to clinically identified hypomobile thoracic spinal segments. The intervention will focus on improving thoracic extension and segmental mobility and reducing stiffness and pain around the cervicothoracic region. Mobilization will be performed before the exercise programme for approximately 10-15 minutes per session, three times per week for eight weeks. The mobilization technique and intensity will be selected according to the participant's clinical presentation and tolerance.
Locations (1)
The University of Lahore Teaching Hospital
Lahore, Pakistan