Impact of Spiral Stretch Technique on Range of Motion, Pain, and Disability in Patients with Adhesive Capsulitis: A Study Protocol for a Randomised Clinical Trial

Abstract

Introduction: Adhesive Capsulitis (AC) of the shoulder is a progressively painful condition that gradually limits both passive and active movement in the glenohumeral joint. It affects 3% to 5% of the general population annually, but in individuals with diabetes, the rate can reach up to 40%. The Spiral Stretch technique is a unique method that incorporates Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) into an assessment and treatment sequence, modified to include Muscle Energy Technique (MET) principles. Although preliminary research suggests a potential role for managing AC, further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness as a standalone or adjunctive therapy. Need of the study: The spiral stretch technique shows promise for managing AC, but its benefits, best use, and long-term effects are not yet clear. More research is needed to understand it better and improve patient outcomes. A im: To develop a protocol to evaluate the efficacy of the spiral stretch technique in treating pain, Range of Motion (ROM), and disability in patients with AC. Materials and Methods: This is a pre-test post-test Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT) that will be conducted at MM Super-specialty Hospital, Mullana from August 2024 to February 2025. Patients will be recruited based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Subjects will be randomly allocated into two groups through computer-based random allocation techniques. Group 1 will receive spiral stretch and conventional physiotherapy treatment, whereas Group 2 will receive only conventional physiotherapy treatment. Pre-test and post-test assessment will be done using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), shoulder ROM measurements, and the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI). The physiotherapy treatment will be given for 40 minutes each session, three times a week for four weeks.

Keywords

• range of motion
• shoulder joint
• shoulder pain