International Journal of Yoga, Physiotherapy and Physical Education

Authors
Dr. Sajiri Joshi, Dr. Kiran Jeswani, Dr. Sucheta Golhar

Abstract
Objective: The objective of this study was to see the effect of scapular muscle strength training on pain, function and grip strength in patients with lateral epicondylitis at the end of 6 weeks. Subject and Methods: 40 subjects diagnosed with lateral epicondylitis for more than three months were divided into two equal groups using random allocation. The study included both males and females in the age group of 30-50 years. Group A was given scapular muscle strengthening exercises along with conventional exercises. Group B was given only conventional exercises. Both the groups received treatment for duration of 6 weeks (4 sessions/week). Outcome measures for pain, function and grip strength were Numerical pain rating scale (NPRS), Patient Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation Scale (PRTEE) and Hand held dynamometer respectively which were taken pre intervention and after the study duration. Result: In Group A, NPRS score reduced from 3.5+1.14 to 2.89+1.02 and the PRTEE score reduced from 50+18.67 to 30.16+12.02. In Group B, NPRS score reduced from 3.83+1.2 to 2.89+1.023 and the PRTEE score reduced from 50.11+18.961 to 43.94+18.05. In Group A, grip strength improved from 16.556+5.125 to 17.556+4.829. In Group B, grip strength improved from 18+4.058 to 19+4.298. Conclusion: Adding scapular muscle strengthening along with conventional exercise had significant effects in improving function and reducing pain but no significant effects in improving grip strength in patients with Lateral epicondylitis.