Impact of SNAGs and Scapular Mobilizations on Scapulocostal Syndrome

Effect of SNAGs and Scapular Mobilizations in Patients With Scapulocostal Syndrome

Not applicable Interventional Riphah International University · NCT06656182

This study is testing if a combination of special movements and physical therapy can help people with scapulocostal syndrome feel less pain and move better.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment36 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 40 Years
SexAll
SponsorRiphah International University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Rawalpindi, Punjab Province)
Trial IDNCT06656182 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glides (SNAGs) and scapular mobilizations on pain, range of motion, and functional outcomes in individuals suffering from scapulocostal syndrome. By targeting specific joint surfaces and soft tissue structures, the interventions aim to alleviate pain and improve mobility in the scapulothoracic region. The approach is patient-centered, adapting to individual symptoms and mobility deficits to enhance therapeutic effectiveness. Participants will undergo a combination of cervical and thoracic SNAGs along with traditional physical therapy techniques.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18 to 40 with nonspecific neck pain lasting more than three months and specific mobility limitations.

Not a fit: Patients with musculoskeletal pathologies affecting the cervical spine or lower extremities will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide significant relief from pain and improved mobility for patients with scapulocostal syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific combination of SNAGs and scapular mobilizations is novel, similar approaches have shown promise in treating related musculoskeletal conditions.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age- 18 to 40 years.

  * Male and female both
  * Nonspecific neck pain with a duration of greater than 3 months
  * No pain reproduction on isometric muscle testing in shoulder.
  * Patients who could not achieve 60 degrees of upward rotation when elevating the arms above the head i.e. presence of scapular dyskinesia
  * pain with a referral pattern while receiving manual pressure of at least 3 points on the medial scapular muscles (levator scapulae, rhomboid major, rhomboid minor, and serratus posterior superior) evaluated through Travels and Simon criteria.
  * Discomfort, pain, or limitations in neck extension, neck rotation bilaterally, shoulder forward flexion, shoulder abduction attributed to SCS.
  * Willing to provide informed consent to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Musculoskeletal pathologies affecting the cervical spine or lower extremities (e.g., herniated disc, cervical radiculopathy, cervical stenosis, shoulder labral tear).

  * history of degenerative shoulder joint disease
  * rotator cuff dysfunction
  * Thoracic outlet syndrome
  * Brachial neuralgia
  * shoulder impingement syndrome
  * adhesive capsulitis
  * Pregnant individuals due to potential discomfort.
  * Open wounds, infections, or skin conditions at pain site.

Where this trial is running

Rawalpindi, Punjab Province

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Scapulocostal Syndromenon specific neck painSNAGsScapular mobilizationsNDI
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.