Abstract

Objective: To find and compare effects of pectoralis minor stretching and rhomboids strengthening in management of rounded shoulder posture (RSP).
Methodology: This randomized trial was conducted by recruiting 32 asymptomatic healthy individuals having RSP using convenience sampling technique. Participants were randomly divided into two groups. Group A received pectoralis minor stretching only and group B received pectoralis minor stretching along with rhomboids strengthening training. Both groups received total of 6 sessions, 2 sessions per week for 3 weeks. Assessment was done using Total scapular distance (TSD) and Normalized scapular abduction ratio (NSA ratio) before treatment, after 1st, 2nd & 3rd weeks of rehabilitation. SPSS v.20 was used for statistical analysis.
Results: Mean age in group A was 26.80±2.17 and in group B was 25.53±1.18. Within the group analysis using repeated measure ANOVA revealed both techniques to be effective in reducing total scapular distance and Normalized scapular abduction ratio (p0.05).
Conclusion: Pectoralis minor stretching alone and pectoralis minor stretching along with rhomboids strengthening both were equally effective techniques for management of RSP.

Key words: Physical therapy, posture, muscle stretching exercises, strengthening program, pectoralis muscle, rounded shoulder posture.