The Effect of Shoulder Mobilization on Muscle Strength and Proprioception: a Randomized Double-blind Study

Not Applicable

Not yet recruiting

• Conditions: Healthy Male and Female Subjects

• Registration Number: NCT06910332
• Lead Sponsor: Acibadem University

Brief Summary

This randomized, double-blind study examines the acute effects of shoulder mobilization on muscle strength and proprioception in healthy individuals. Forty-eight participants (aged 18-25) were randomly assigned to either a mobilization or sham intervention group. Muscle strength and proprioception were assessed before and after treatment. The mobilization group received passive shoulder joint glides, while the sham group underwent a placebo procedure. The study aims to determine whether mobilization affects strength and proprioception immediately.

Detailed Description

Summary of the Study

This randomized, double-blind study investigates the acute effects of shoulder joint mobilization on muscle strength and proprioception in healthy individuals compared to a sham intervention.

Background:

The shoulder joint is highly mobile and prone to injury, with rehabilitation often including manual therapy techniques like joint mobilization. Mobilization may enhance joint stability, neuromuscular control, and proprioception by stimulating mechanoreceptors. However, its immediate effects on shoulder proprioception and strength remain unclear.

Methods:

Participants: 48 healthy university students (aged 18-25) randomly assigned to either the mobilization or sham group.

Assessments: Muscle strength (using a handheld dynamometer) and proprioception (laser pointer-assisted joint position reproduction test) were measured before and after the intervention.

Intervention: The mobilization group received passive shoulder joint glides, while the sham group underwent a placebo procedure without actual joint movement.

Conclusion:

This study aims to determine whether shoulder mobilization has immediate effects on proprioception and strength.

Study Timeline

• Status Verified: 2025-03
• Study First Submitted: 2025-03-28
• Study First Submitted QC: 2025-03-28
• Last Update Submitted: 2025-03-28
• Study Start: 2025-04-01
• Study First Posted: 2025-04-04
• Last Update Posted: 2025-04-04
• Primary Completion: 2025-06-30
• Study Completion: 2025-06-30

Recruitment & Eligibility

• Status: NOT_YET_RECRUITING
• Sex: All
• Target Recruitment: 48

Inclusion Criteria

• Healthy university students aged 18-25 years.

Exclusion Criteria

• Individuals with orthopedic problems in the shoulder complex.
• Those who have undergone previous shoulder surgery.
• Participants with prior knowledge of joint mobilization techniques that could affect the sham intervention.

Study & Design

• Study Type: INTERVENTIONAL
• Study Design: PARALLEL

Primary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
Proprioception	Before and immediately after intervention	Laser pointer-assisted joint position reproduction test for shoulder: A laser pointer is strapped 5 cm above the lateral epicondyle. Participants actively move their arm to a predefined position (90° flexion or abduction), and the laser projection is marked.; After lowering their arm and closing their eyes, they attempt to replicate the same position.; The difference between the initial and reproduced positions (in millimeters) is measured
Muscle Strength	Before and immediately after intervention	Hand-held dynamometer (Lafayette) Muscle strength will be measured using a hand-held dynamometer (Lafayette). The assessment will focus on the shoulder flexors, abductors, internal rotators, and external rotators. Three measurements for each muscle group will be taken, and the average value will be recorded in Newtons.