Scapular stabilization exercise based on the type of scapular dyskinesis versus traditional rehabilitation training in the treatment of periarthritis of the shoulder: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND

Periarthritis of the shoulder is a common disease leading to dysfunction of the shoulder joint and have a significant impact on patients' daily life. Evidence shows that there is a close relationship between scapular dyskinesis (SD) and shoulder diseases. Scapular stabilization exercise has been proved to be efficacious in relieving pain and improving function. However, there is no targeted exercise based on the type of scapular dyskinesis. This study will investigate the potential of scapular stabilization exercise based on the type of scapular dyskinesis in treating periarthritis of the shoulder.

METHODS

This study is a prospective, randomized controlled, parallel-group trial, intending to recruit 90 patients diagnosed with periarthritis of the shoulder. Patients will receive scapular stabilization exercise training based on the type of scapular dyskinesis or receive traditional rehabilitation training conducted for 30 min, once a day, for 6 weeks. The primary outcome is Constant-Murley score (CMS), and other outcomes include pain degree, range of motion (ROM), type of scapular dyskinesis, scapula position, and patients' satisfaction with shoulder function. Assessments will be performed at baseline, 2-, 4- and 6-week treatment, and at the 6-week follow-up after the end of treatment.

DISCUSSION: This study will be the first study to investigate the clinical efficacy of scapular stabilization exercise based on the type of scapular dyskinesis in patients with periarthritis of the shoulder. The results may provide evidence of the effect of targeted scapular stabilization exercise in improving shoulder function and correcting scapular dyskinesis, and provide valuable information for future research.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study had been registered in the Chinese Clinical Trials Registry. Registration number: ChiCTR2100044332 at March 14, 2021.