Effectiveness of Pulsed Muscle Energy Technique as compared with Scapular stabilization exercises on Functional Capacity, Pain and Quality of life in patients with Scapulocostal Syndrome – A Randomized Controlled Trial

This randomized controlled trial investigates the effectiveness of Pulsed Muscle Energy Technique (PMET) compared to Scapular Stabilization Exercises (SSE) on functional capacity, pain, and quality of life in patients with Scapulocostal Syndrome (SCS). Sixty participants aged 18 to 60 years, clinically diagnosed with SCS, will be recruited from the Physiotherapy Department at Dr. SMCSI Medical College. Participants will be randomly allocated into two groups: Group A (PMET) and Group B (SSE). The study aims to compare both interventions using validated outcome measures such as the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) for function, Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) for pain, and SF 36 for quality of life. Additional measures including Pain Pressure Threshold (PPT) and scapular range of motion will serve as secondary outcomes.

The PMET intervention involves rhythmic, submaximal isometric contractions of scapular stabilizer muscles, including the rhomboids and middle trapezius, applied in short pulses to release myofascial tension and improve scapular mobility. In contrast, the SSE program emphasizes motor control, muscle activation, and postural correction through progressive exercises targeting the serratus anterior and lower trapezius. Both interventions will be administered three times per week for six weeks, with evaluations conducted at baseline, two weeks, and six weeks. The study integrates artificial intelligence based tools such as Elicit, Scite AI, and Kinovea to support literature synthesis, data accuracy, and motion analysis, ensuring methodological precision and minimizing human error during data collection and analysis.

Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 29 with statistical significance set at p less than 0.05. Independent t tests and chi square tests will assess baseline comparability, while mixed model repeated measures ANOVA will examine within group and between group effects over time. AI assisted validation and double entry procedures will ensure data integrity, and blinding of assessors will minimize bias. This study aims to provide evidence based insights into the comparative efficacy of PMET and SSE in improving pain, functional performance, and overall quality of life in individuals with scapulocostal syndrome, guiding future physiotherapy interventions for scapulothoracic dysfunction.