Table 1 Components of the physiotherapy intervention

Soft tissue massage

6 mins each position

   Anterior and posterior shoulder tissues performed in supine and sidelying respectively

Glenohumeral joint mobilisation

4 × 30 seconds each position

   Anteroposterior and inferior joint glides in supine with shoulder at 45° and 90° abduction respectively

Thoracic spine mobilisation (T1-8)

Grade IV on each level – 4 mins in total

   Performed in prone using a central posteroanterior technique

Cervical spine mobilisation (C5-7)

Grade IV on each level – 4 mins in total

   Performed in prone using unilateral posteroanterior technique on both sides

Scapular retraining

Weeks 1 and 2 only

   In sidelying, therapist passively moves shoulder through range from elevation/protraction to retraction/depression then assisted by participant then independently. Isometric holds in retraction/depression

15 reps × 5 reps with 10 sec holds

Postural taping

Continuous (day and night) for two weeks

   Taping of the shoulders and scapula to encourage scapular retraction and depression and thoracic extension

Re-applied after one week by the therapist

Exercises

Home program:

   Supervised and performed as home program

Twice daily in first two weeks

Once a day thereafter