Clinical Pilates Impact on Pain, Joint Mobility, and Scapular Dyskinesia in Chronic Neck and Shoulder Pain Patients

Abstract

Objective: The present study aimed to investigate the effects of clinical Pilates on pain intensity, joint range of motion (ROM), and scapular dyskinesia in individuals with chronic neck and shoulder pain. Method: A total of 28 participants with chronic neck and shoulder pain were enrolled in the study. The intervention consisted of clinical Pilates exercises conducted twice weekly over a period of eight weeks under the supervision of a physiotherapist. Pain intensity was measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Cervical and glenohumeral joint range of motion were assessed with a standard goniometer. Scapular dyskinesia was evaluated using the Lateral Scapular Slide Test (LSST). Results: Following the intervention, a statistically significant reduction in pain intensity was observed (p<.05). Cervical ROM improved significantly in all directions (p<.05). Significant gains in shoulder ROM were also noted, except for internal rotation and adduction, which did not reach statistical significance (p>.05). Additionally, there was a significant improvement in scapular positioning as indicated by a reduction in scapular dyskinesia scores on the LSST (p<.05). Conclusion: The results suggest that clinical Pilates may be an effective therapeutic approach for reducing pain, enhancing joint mobility, and improving scapular stability in individuals suffering from chronic neck and shoulder pain. These findings support the incorporation of clinical Pilates into rehabilitation programs targeting neuromusculoskeletal dysfunctions of the cervical and shoulder regions. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.