The Combined Effect of Mulligan Mobilization, Pain Neuroscience-Based Training, and Core Stabilization Exercises in Frozen Shoulder Patients

Summary

The purpose of this randomized controlled study is to investigate the effects of a combined rehabilitation program consisting of Mulligan Mobilization with Movement (MWM), Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE), and core stabilization exercises in individuals with adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder).

The main questions this study aims to answer are:

Does the combination of Mulligan mobilization, Pain Neuroscience Education, and core stabilization exercises reduce pain in individuals with adhesive capsulitis? Does this combined intervention improve shoulder range of motion, shoulder function, quality of life, scapular dyskinesis, and pain catastrophizing compared with conventional physical therapy?

Participants diagnosed with adhesive capsulitis will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. The intervention group will receive Mulligan mobilization, Pain Neuroscience Education, and core stabilization exercises, while the control group will receive conventional physical therapy, including TENS, hot-pack application, passive joint mobilization, and stretching exercises. Both groups will participate in treatment sessions three times per week for six weeks. Outcome measures will be assessed at baseline and after completion of the 6-week intervention period.

Conditions

• Frozen Shoulder

Interventions

BEHAVIORAL

Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE)

Participants will receive Pain Neuroscience Education focused on the biopsychosocial nature of pain, central sensitization, the distinction between pain and tissue damage, and strategies to reduce fear of movement. The initial educational session will last approximately 15-20 minutes, followed by 5-10 minute reinforcement sessions throughout the intervention period. Education will be delivered through verbal explanations and interactive discussion.

PROCEDURE

Mulligan Mobilization With Movement (MWM)

Participants will receive Mulligan Mobilization with Movement techniques applied to the glenohumeral joint, including posterolateral glide with active abduction, inferior glide with shoulder flexion, and posterior glide with internal rotation. Mobilizations will be performed within a pain-free range of motion. Each technique will be administered in 3 sets of 10 repetitions with 30 seconds of rest between sets. Treatment will be provided three times per week for six weeks

BEHAVIORAL

Core Stabilization Exercises

Participants will perform Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS)-based core stabilization exercises. The program will include diaphragmatic breathing, supine 90/90 positioning, abdominal bracing, and progression to dead bug, bird-dog, and modified plank exercises as tolerated. Exercises will be performed in 2-3 sets of 8-12 repetitions with 10-20 second isometric holds. Progression will occur from stable to unstable surfaces and from static to dynamic activities

OTHER

Conventional Physical Therapy

Participants in the control group will receive conventional physical therapy consisting of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) applied at a sensory level for 20 minutes, hot-pack application for 20 minutes, passive shoulder joint mobilization exercises, pendulum exercises, and wand exercises. Treatment sessions will be conducted three times per week for six weeks.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Yeditepe University

  lead OTHER

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

SINGLE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Max Age

65 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2026-04-21

Primary Completion

2027-01-31

Completion

2027-01-31

Countries

• Turkey (Türkiye)

Study Locations