The Effects of Shoulder Mobilization Technique and Positional Release Technique v/s Only Positional Release for Pectoralis Minor Tightness in Forward Shoulder Patients: A Comparative Study

Background: Forward shoulder posture (FSP) [10] is a common musculoskeletal deviation, often linked to pectoralis minor (PMi) tightness and decreased shoulder function. Manual therapy interventions like positional release technique (PRT) [3] and shoulder mobilization (SMT) [1] are widely used in clinical practice. Objective: To compare the effectiveness of PRT alone versus a combined intervention of SMT and PRT in reducing PMi tightness and improving shoulder function in individuals with FSP. Methods: A total of 30 participants with FSP and PMi tightness were randomly allocated into Group A (PRT only, n=15) and Group B (SMT+PRT, n=15) [4]. Interventions were administered thrice weekly for 6 weeks. Outcome measures included PMi length Test/ Table Top Test (cm) [8], shoulder range of motion (flexion and external rotation in degrees) [6], and SPADI (Shoulder Pain and Disability Index) [5]. Pre - and post - intervention data were statistically analyzed using paired and unpaired t - tests. Results: A total of 30 participants with FSP and PMi tightness were randomly allocated into Group A (PRT only, n=15) and Group B (SMT+PRT, n=15). Interventions were administered thrice weekly for 6 weeks. Outcome measures included PMi length (cm), shoulder range of motion (flexion and external rotation in degrees), and SPADI (Shoulder Pain and Disability Index). Pre - and post - intervention data were statistically analyzed using paired and unpaired t - tests. Conclusion: While PRT alone is effective, combining SMT with PRT yields superior improvements in shoulder mobility, posture correction, and pain reduction in FSP patients.