Issue 25-1, 2026

Original article

https://doi.org/10.38025/2078-1962-2026-25-1-21-28

Effect of Scapular Stabilization Exercise on Breastfeeding Women with Non-Specific Neck Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial

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ORCIDSaadyya A. A. Aladawi1,*, ORCIDAmel M. Yousef1, ORCIDHossam E. H. Salem2, ORCIDAfaf M. M. Botla1

1Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
2Al-Azhar University, Giza, Egypt


ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION.  Non-specific neck pain, often associated with scapular dysfunction, is a common musculoskeletal issue in breastfeeding mothers that affects health and daily activities.

AIM.  To examine scapular stabilization exercise (SSE) effectiveness on visual analogue scale (VAS), pressure pain threshold (PPT), neck disability index (NDI), and cervical range of motion (CROM) in breastfeeding mothers with non-specific neck pain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS.  This single-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial was performed in Cairo University’s outpatient clinics for the Faculty of Physical Therapy. Thirty multiparous breastfeeding women (18–35 years; BMI < 30) with non-specific neck pain after cesarean delivery were randomly assigned into two groups: The control group Areceived muscle energy technique and advice, and the study group B received the same program plus SSE. Three times/week for 4 weeks. VAS, PPT, NDI, and CROM were measured at baseline and after 4 weeks of therapy.

RESULTS.  A total of 30 patients were randomized (Group A = 15, Group B = 15). At follow-up, both groups improved significantly in pain and function (p < 0.05). The mixed MANOVA revealed a significant Group × Time interaction (Pillai’s Trace = 0.95; F = 50.09; p = 0.00; η² = 0.95). Group B showed greater reductions in pain intensity (VAS: 4.66 ± 1.57 vs. 2.66 ± 1.08) compared with Group A (4.94 ± 1.21 vs. 4.22 ± 1.30), with a mean difference of –1.55 (95% CI: –2.36 to –0.74; p = 0.00). Pressure pain threshold and cervical range of motion also improved more in Group B than in Group A. These findings indicate superior reductions in pain, disability, and mechanical sensitivity in Group B.

DISCUSSION.  Both groups improved significantly across all outcome measures post-treatment. The considerable within-group improvement in VAS, PPT, NDI, and CROM can be linked to the efficacy of both the muscle energy techniques and posture education. Likewise, teaching proper posture reduces the biomechanical stress associated with breastfeeding and enhances the musculoskeletal function

CONCLUSION.  Scapular stability exercises improved cervical pain, function, and mobility more than standard treatment and can be included in rehabilitation for breastfeeding mothers.


KEYWORDS: neck pain, lactation, postpartum period, pain threshold, exercise therapy

FOR CITATION: Aladawi S.A.A., Yousef A.M., Salem H.E.H., Botla A.M.M. Effect of Scapular Stabilization Exercise on Breastfeeding Women with Non-Specific Neck Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Bulletin of Rehabilitation Medicine. 2026; 25(1):21–28. https://doi.org/10.38025/2078-1962-2026-25-1-21-28

FOR CORRESPONDENCE:

Saadyya Ahmed Abdalhamed Aladawi, E-mail:  dr.saadyya@cu.edu.eg


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This is an open article under the CC BY 4.0 license. Published by the National Medical Research Center for Rehabilitation and Balneology.