Effectiveness of Shoulder Mobilization in Enhancing the Outcomes of Positional Release Technique for Correcting Forward Shoulder Posture

Background: Forward shoulder posture (FSP)[10] is a prevalent musculoskeletal deviation frequently linked to pectoralis minor tightness and shoulder dysfunction. The positional release technique (PRT)[2,3] is effective in relieving muscle tension, but joint mechanics often remain compromised. This study evaluates whether incorporating shoulder mobilization (SM)[1] enhances the outcomes of PRT in individuals with FSP. Objective: To compare the effectiveness of shoulder mobilization combined with PRT[4] versus PRT alone in improving posture, muscle flexibility, shoulder mobility, and pain-related disability in young adults with FSP. Methods: Thirty participants (aged 15?30) with diagnosed FSP and pectoralis minor tightness were randomized into two groups: Group A (PRT only) and Group B (PRT + SM)[1,4]. Interventions were applied three times weekly for six weeks. Pre- and post-treatment outcomes were assessed using the Pectoralis Minor Length Test[8], shoulder ROM (flexion and external rotation)[6], and SPADI (Shoulder Pain and Disability Index)[5]. Intra-group changes were analyzed via paired t-tests; inter-group comparisons used independent t-tests. Results: Group B showed significantly greater improvements than Group A in all parameters. Mean increases in shoulder flexion (25.6? vs. 16.27?), external rotation (15.33? vs. 9.07?), and pectoralis minor length (1.73 cm vs. 1.40 cm) were observed. SPADI scores improved more in Group B (mean decrease: 38.4 points) than Group A (20.33 points), with all p-values < 0.0001. Conclusion: Combining shoulder mobilization with PRT results in superior functional and structural recovery in FSP patients compared to PRT alone.