Effects of Active Scapular Retraction during Shoulder Flexion 60 Degree on Pectoralis Minor Muscle Length and Forward Shoulder Angle

Authors

  • Nitaya Viriyatharakij Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Allied Health, Srinakharinwirot University
  • Sawitree Supjareonkul
  • Suleephat Sirimusika
  • Wichaya Tangwongvarn
  • Sopida Pitakpol

Keywords:

rounded shoulder posture, scapular retraction, stretching

Abstract

Posture control in fault position such as forward shoulder angle results in pectoralis minor decreasing in length. Appropriate muscle stretching technique could increase muscle length and posture may be realign into a good position by reduction in forward shoulder angle (FSA). Fifty eight healthy participants with averaged age of 20.9 years and right arm dominant were included. After pectoralis minor stretching, pectoralis minor length was measured by digital vernier caliper and forward shoulder angle was measured from side view photograph in upright sitting by Kinovea program. The stretching was performed 2 rounds by active retraction at shoulder flexion 60O. Each round includes 3 consecutive sets of 20-second hold and 10-second rest. Mean differences of pectoralis minor length and forward shoulder angle before and after stretching were statistically significant (p < 0.001). Pectoralis minor length was increased 1.99 mm. (95%CI 1.27, 2.72), but forward shoulder angle was decreased 3.6O (95%CI 5.2, 2.0). In addition, pectoralis minor length was correlated with forward shoulder angle (p<0.01). Active scapular retraction following this study caused an immediate effect on increased pectoralis minor length and reduced forward shoulder angle using  two dimensional measurement.

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