Comparing muscle energy technique (MET) versus conventional physiotherapy in cases of adhesive capsulitis of shoulder- A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

This study was a randomized controlled trial conducted at Noor Hospital Rawalpindi, Pakistan to compare muscle energy technique (MET) and conventional physiotherapy techniques in patients with confirmed diagnosis of adhesive capsulitis. This study was, conducted between March 2021 to August 2021. A total of 30 participants regardless of gender, aged between 30 to 60 years, with confirmed diagnosis of idiopathic adhesive capsulitis were included. Participants with unstable shoulder fractures and dislocation, thoracic outlet syndrome, rotator cuff injuries, reflex sympathetic syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, extreme shoulder pain not relieved by any medication or rest were excluded from study. The patients were assigned in experimental (n=15) and control group (n=15) using sealed envelope method. Participants in both groups were assessed at baseline and after 4 weeks. The outcome of the treatment was measured in terms of numeric pain rating scale (NPRS), Shoulder Pain & Disability Index (SPADI) and goniometer for measuring shoulder ROM. The overall mean age of participants was 51.64±5.31 years. The study included 12 (40%) males and 18 (60%) females. After 4 weeks of treatment a significant difference (p-value <0.05) was seen between groups in terms of pain, disability and shoulder ROM. The study concluded that MET is a non-invasive treatment for reducing pain. The MET was also shown to improve functional ability and ROM in patients with adhesive capsulitis in comparison to conventional physical therapy treatment.