The Effects of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation

Scapular stability on the thorax is fundamental for maintaining proper upper extremity function. The loss of this stability manifests clinically as scapular winging, a pathological condition characterized by the prominent protrusion of the medial (vertebral) border and/or the inferior angle of the scapula away from the thorax.

PNF can target the underlying impairment of scapular dysfunction by activating the muscle synergies required for scapulothoracic stability more powerfully and coordinately through resisted diagonal movements.

Therefore, the implementation and testing of PNF protocols are of critical importance, as this method can enhance functional strength and coordination, contributing to better clinical outcomes and improved quality of life in individuals with scapular winging.

Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effects of PNF on shoulder girdle function and quality of life in individuals with scapular winging.

In this study, designed as a randomized controlled trial, one group will receive PNF in scapular diagonals for approximately 20-30 minutes, three days a week, for a total of five weeks, to ensure scapular positioning and increase the tone of the surrounding muscles.

The control group will receive no intervention during this period.

Before (pre-test) and after (post-test) the study, participants in both groups will be evaluated using the Scapular Isometric Pinch Test for scapular muscle endurance; the Lateral Scapular Slide Test for scapular position; the Rounded Shoulder Posture Assessment for shoulder posture; the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire for upper extremity functional level; and the Short Form-36 for quality of life.

• Scapular Isometric Pinch Test [Срок оценки: one week]
• The Lateral Scapular Slide Test [Срок оценки: one week]
• Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire [Срок оценки: one week]
• Short Form-36 [Срок оценки: one week]