Effect of Mulligan mobilization along with conventional physiotherapy regime on pain and functional disability using visual analogue scale and disability of the arm, shoulder, and hand scale in diabetic frozen shoulder with high tissue irritability level

Abstract

Background: Frozen shoulder in individuals with diabetes mellitus, particularly with high tissue irritability, presents a significant clinical challenge due to severe pain and restricted motion.

Objectives: To assess the effect of Mulligan mobilization on pain and functional disability using the visual analogue scale and the disability of the arm, shoulder, and hand scale in diabetic frozen shoulder with a high tissue irritability level. To assess the effect of conventional physiotherapy regime on diabetic frozen shoulder with high tissue irritability level.

Materials and Methods: A total of 60 participants diagnosed with diabetic frozen shoulder and high tissue irritability (VAS >7, DASH >35) were randomly divided and assigned into group A and group B with 30 individuals in each by using SPSS software. Group A received conventional physiotherapy (hot moist packs, therapeutic ultrasound, and shoulder exercises), while Group B received conventional physiotherapy along with Mulligan Mobilization With Movement (MWM). Interventions were administered four days per week for six weeks. Outcomes were assessed pre- and post-treatment using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scale.
Results: Group B demonstrated significantly greater improvement in pain (VAS reduction: 4.42 ± 0.11 vs. 2.11 ± 0.10) and functional ability (DASH reduction: 39.47 ± 0.54 vs. 23.38 ± 0.37) compared to Group A (p < 0.0001).
Conclusion: Incorporating Mulligan mobilization into conventional physiotherapy significantly enhances pain relief and functional recovery in diabetic frozen shoulder patients with high tissue irritability..