Prediction of Functional Disability and Clinical Trial in Subjects With Stiff Shoulders
Prediction of Functional Disability and Clinical Trial in Subjects With Stiff Shoulders
First, the purpose of the first year study will examine the joint capsule/muscular and
 shoulder physical activity hypotheses related to ROM deficits as well as functional
 disability in subjects with Stiff shoulders. Second, the purpose of the second and third year
 study will investigate the long-term effect of 12-week joint mobilization, 12-week joint
 mobilization plus soft tissue mobilization/massage, and 12-week joint mobilization plus soft
 tissue mobilization/massage with appropriate shoulder physical activity guide on subjects
 with Stiff shoulders. Subjects: First year: thirty subjects with Stiff shoulders will be
 recruited. Second and third years: forty-five subjects with Stiff shoulders for one year
 follow-up. Methods: For the measurement outcomes; functional disability, rotation range of
 motion, joint mobility, muscle stiffness, and shoulder physical activity will be measured by
 self-reported Flexi-level Scale of Shoulder Function or performance-based motion analysis,
 goniometer, uni-axis load cell and electromagnetic tracking sensor, myotonometer, and
 accelerometers, respectively.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  [1] a limited ROM of flexion, abduction, and rotation (ROM < 20% to the sound side);
 and [2] pain and stiffness in the shoulder region for at least 3 months.

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  surgery on the particular shoulder, [2] rheumatoid arthritis, [3] stroke with residual
 shoulder involvement, [4] fracture of the shoulder complex, [5] rotator cuff
 deficiency, and [6] resting pain, intolerable pain, or muscle spasm during active
 and/or passive motion.