The effect of an eight-week shoulder rehabilitation intervention programme on pain and function, range of motion and muscle strength among teachers: A pilot study.

Abstract

Teachers present with shoulder musculoskeletal disorders, which result in pain and poor shoulder function. To determine the effect of an eight-week shoulder rehabilitation intervention on pain and function, range of motion and muscle strength among teachers. Thirty teachers presenting with shoulder pain were recruited and divided into equal control and experimental groups. The intervention group participated in an eight-week rehabilitation programme. Pre- and post-intervention measurements included the scapular position test, range of motion, muscle strength measurements as well as a shoulder rating questionnaire. There was a significant improvement in the experimental group's internal range of motion for the dominant (p= 0.006) and non-dominant arms (p= 0.003) post-intervention. Additionally, significant improvements were found in muscle strength in the experimental group in dominant and non-dominant flexion; abduction; external rotation (p< 0.001); dominant internal rotation (p< 0.001) and non-dominant internal rotation strength (p= 0.007). Post-intervention questionnaire data found a decrease in pain (p= 0.003); improved ability to perform daily activities (p= 0.006); improved overall score (p< 0.001) and satisfaction (p= 0.023) in the intervention group compared to the control group. The implementation of a rehabilitation programme in schools should be considered to manage the prevalence of shoulder musculoskeletal disorders among teachers.