Scapular posterior tilt exercises versus cross-body stretches for rounded shoulders after childbirth
Comparative Effects of Scapular Posterior Tilt Exercises and Cross-Body Stretching on Breastfeeding Efficiency Latch Quality and Posture in Postpartum Women With Rounded Shoulders
This 4-week program tests whether scapular posterior tilt exercises or cross-body stretches help breastfeeding and posture in postpartum women with rounded shoulders.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 34 (estimated) |
| Ages | 20 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | Riphah International University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Lahore, Punjab Province) |
| Trial ID | NCT07576296 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This randomized study will enroll 30 multiparous women between 2 weeks and 6 months postpartum who are actively breastfeeding and have rounded shoulders. Participants are randomly assigned to perform either scapular posterior tilt exercises or cross-body stretching three times per week for four weeks, alongside standardized ergonomic education on breastfeeding posture. Outcomes measured before and after the intervention include latch quality (BBAT), breastfeeding self-efficacy (BSES), and objective posture analysis using the APECS system. Data will be entered and analyzed using SPSS to compare changes between the two groups.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Multiparous postpartum women 2 weeks to 6 months after delivery who are actively breastfeeding and have rounded shoulders or related shoulder discomfort are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Women with recent shoulder surgery or trauma, major musculoskeletal disorders affecting the shoulder, a history of breast cancer or hepatitis, or severe postnatal complications may not receive benefit or be eligible for participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the interventions could improve breastfeeding latch and efficiency and reduce shoulder discomfort and poor posture in postpartum women.
How similar studies have performed: Physical therapy research supports that scapular exercises and stretching can improve shoulder mechanics and posture, but few prior studies have directly measured effects on breastfeeding outcomes, making this application relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Mutiparous females. * previous cesarean section deliveries * Postpartum women between 2 weeks and 6 months postpartum. * Experiencing shoulder discomfort or poor posture Exclusion Criteria: * History of recent trauma or surgery such a Arthroscopy for Impingement Syndrome, Shoulder Replacement that affecting the shoulder complex. * Mother with history of breast cancer and hepatitis * History of shoulder surgery, trauma, or musculoskeletal disorders affecting the upper back/shoulder (Trapezius muscles train, Levator scapulae and rhomboid overuse) * Severe postnatal complications (e.g., mastitis, postpartum depression, uncontrolled hypertension or diabetes.
Where this trial is running
Lahore, Punjab Province
- Sheikh Zaid Hospital — Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: hina gul, PhD* — Riphah International University
- Study coordinator: imran amjad
- Email: imran.amjad@riphah.edu.pk
- Phone: 03324390125
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.