Comparing the efficacy of 3-dimensional release technique and modified active release therapy on pain, scapular position and Craniovertebral angle in IT workers with scapulocostal syndrome: A Randomised Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND

Scapulocostal syndrome (SCS) is musculoskeletal disorder among IT (Information Technology) workers, characterized by pain, stiffness, affecting posterior shoulder and interscapular area, resulting from prolonged static postures and repetitive movements. 3-Dimensional Release Technique (3-DRT) and modified Active Release Therapy (mART) are soft tissue release techniques that focus on alleviating pain and correcting postural deviations. However, comparative studies evaluating the relative efficacy of these techniques in managing SCS are limited.

PURPOSE: To determine comparative effect of 3-DRT and mART in IT workers with SCS in terms of pain intensity, scapular position, Forward Head Posture (FHP) and Pain Pressure Threshold (PPT).

METHODS

Thirty (n = 30) participants diagnosed with SCS were randomly allocated to 2 groups based on selection criteria. Group A (n = 15) received 3-DRT and Group B (n = 15) received mART on alternate days for a period of 2 weeks along with conventional therapy. As outcome measures, pain intensity was assessed using Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), PPT using pressure algometer, FHP using Craniovertebral Angle (CVA) and scapular position using Lateral Scapular Slide Test (LSST) on day 1 and day 14.

RESULTS

Within group analysis depicted significant improvement in all outcomes post-intervention (p < 0.001). Between group analysis of NPRS (p = 0.276), PPT (p = 0.607), CVA (p = 0.337) and LSST at position 1(p = 0.550), position 2(p = 0.999) and position 3(p = 0.218) indicated no statistically significant differences between Group A and Group B.

CONCLUSION

Study revealed that both 3-DRT and mART are equally effective in reducing pain, correcting FHP and improving PPT and scapular alignment among IT workers with SCS.