Immediate effects of myofascial release to the pectoral fascia on posture, range of motion, and muscle excitation: a crossover randomized clinical trial

Review written by Dr Carlo Wood info

Key Points

  1. There was a significant interaction between treatment and time (four minutes) for forward shoulder posture.
All key points available for members only
Start free trial Icon
Or log in here

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE

Forward shoulder posture (FSP) is found in 73% of individuals and characterized by scapular abduction. Available evidence suggests that altered scapular position and FSP predisposes people to injury. Correcting FSP may be important for the prevention of shoulder pathologies.

The authors’ purpose was to determine the effects of myofascial release (MFR) on the pectoral fascia, compared to a soft-touch control (CON), in subjects with FSP on: FSP, Horizontal abduction-ROM (HA-ROM), and muscle excitation of the trapezius and pectoralis (PEC). The authors hypothesized that MFR would: decrease FSP, increase HA-ROM, increase trapezius excitation and decrease upper trapezius and PEC excitation.

Forward shoulder posture (FSP) is found in 73% of individuals and characterized by scapular abduction.
bulb
A four-minute MFR to the pectoral fascia demonstrates a superior reduced forward shoulder posture compared to the control, but did not alter horizontal abduction ROM or muscle excitation.

METHODS

  • Eligibility criteria included: between 18–60 years old; right-hand dominant; no recent pain, injury, or orthopedic disorders to the shoulders, upper back, or neck; no previously diagnosed neurological or musculoskeletal disorder.
Start free trial Icon
to unlock full access to this review and 1109 more
Or log in here
Trustpilot