OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of SM on scapular resting position in individuals with RSP, and to compare this technique to pectoralis minor self-stretching (PMS), and combined SM + PMS.
METHODS: 52 healthy students (18 men and 34 women; mean age 23.67 ± 6.73 years) with RSP were randomly assigned to four groups (SM, PMS, combined SM + PMS, control). The mobilization group received SM, the stretching group performed self-PMS, and the combined group received SM + PMS. The control group received no treatment. Kinematics data to measure scapular protraction (cm), anterior tilt (°), internal rotation (°), and downward rotation (°) were captured with a motion analysis system before and after 5 sessions of group intervention.
RESULTS: All variables decreased significantly post-intervention compared to baseline values (P < 0.05). Internal rotation and downward rotation decreased significantly in the intervention groups compared to the control group (P < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between the intervention groups.
CONCLUSIONS: SM appears to be an effective technique to change scapular resting position in individuals with RSP. However, this technique was not superior to PMS or a combination of SM + PMS.