Comparative analysis of Maitland mobilization versus Butler’s neural mobilization techniques with concurrent use of muscle energy technique for shoulder adhesive capsulitis: A prospective study

Abstract

Background: Shoulder peri-arthritis/adhesive capsulitis/frozen shoulder is a progressive self-limited shoulder capsule inflammation characterized by pain and global restriction in shoulder Range of Motion (ROM), such as shoulder flexion, abduction, and internal and external rotation. The shoulder capsule joint complex thickens and adheres to the underlying bone in this condition. Very few studies have been conducted to date to compare the effectiveness of Maitland mobilization versus Butler’s neural mobilization in common use with Muscle Energy Technique (MET) in the management of adhesive capsulitis. Objective: The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Maitland mobilization versus Butler’s neural mobilization with concurrent use of MET in managing adhesive capsulitis.Methods: Thirty individuals presented with symptoms of adhesive capsulitis in the Physiotherapy Clinic of Brainware University. They were divided randomly into two groups: (i) Group A received Maitland mobilization +MET. (ii) Group B received Butler’s neural mobilization + MET. The treatment was scheduled for four weeks, three sessions per week for both groups. The pain intensity level and functional mobility were assessed before and after treatment. Results: Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) score for inter-group comparison showed significant improvement in Group B patients compared to Group A, along with ROM, especially the abduction and internal rotation.Conclusion: The present study illustrates that both groups experienced significant improvements in ROM, with Group B showing better ROM and a significant reduction in SPADI score.