Effectiveness of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) versus scapular cueing exercise on scapular dyskinesis and pectoralis minor muscle tightness among young adults - A COMPARATIVE STUDY

The scapula plays a vital role in shoulder kinematics through scapulohumeral rhythm and is closely associated with several clinical shoulder problems. Any alteration in scapular positioning or movement is termed scapular dyskinesis (SD), which can present as abnormal scapular elevation, rotation, or winging. SD is often linked with muscle imbalances, particularly involving the pectoralis minor (PM), trapezius, and serratus anterior, contributing to shoulder impingement, rotator cuff pathology, and postural issues. PM tightness has been shown to alter scapular motion, reducing posterior tilt and external rotation, thereby mimicking impingement patterns. Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) techniques, using diagonal and rotational movement patterns with manual resistance, aim to improve coordination, flexibility, and muscle activation. PNF has demonstrated benefits in pain reduction, mobility, and functional performance. Scapular cueing exercises, which incorporate tactile, visual, or verbal feedback, also help retrain scapular orientation and enhance selective muscle activation. Both methods are effective , but comparative evidence is limited. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of PNF versus scapular cueing on SD and PM tightness in young adults. The study will see that effect of which technique is beneficial in this condition after the exercise session is completed .This  study follows  asymptomatic participants aged 18–25 years, randomly allocated into two groups: PNF training (Group A) and scapular cueing exercises (Group B). The intervention lasts six weeks, three sessions per week. Outcome measures include the Lateral Scapular Slide Test (LSST) and PM tightness test, assessed pre- and post-intervention. Data will be analyzed statistically to determine the relative effectiveness of each intervention.