Comparison of Niel-Asher and Spencer Techniques in Frozen Shoulder Patients

Overview

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of two manual therapy techniques-Niel-Asher Technique and Spencer Technique-when combined with conventional physiotherapy in treating patients with frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis). Frozen shoulder is a painful condition that limits movement and function of the shoulder joint. The study will include 44 adults aged 35 to 65 years who have been diagnosed with stage II frozen shoulder. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. Both groups will receive standard physiotherapy, including heat therapy, TENS, and stretching exercises. In addition, one group will receive the Niel-Asher Technique, while the other group will receive the Spencer Technique. Pain, range of motion, and shoulder function will be measured before and after a 4-week treatment period using validated tools such as the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), a goniometer, and the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI). The goal is to determine which manual therapy technique is more effective in improving symptoms and function in patients with frozen shoulder.

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a common musculoskeletal condition characterised by pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion of the glenohumeral joint. It is often associated with idiopathic onset, and can significantly impair daily activities and quality of life. While conventional physiotherapy-including modalities such as heat, TENS, and therapeutic exercise-forms the basis of treatment, there is growing evidence supporting the use of manual therapy techniques for enhanced outcomes. This randomised controlled trial investigates the comparative effects of the Niel-Asher Technique and the Spencer Technique, each provided alongside standard conventional physiotherapy. A total of 44 patients meeting inclusion criteria (age 35-65 years, diagnosed with stage II adhesive capsulitis, and VAS pain score \<7/10) will be enrolled and randomly assigned to one of two groups using computer-generated numbers and sealed envelope allocation. Group A will receive the Niel-Asher Technique, which targets trigger points and myofascial release to reduce muscle guarding and pain. Group B will receive the Spencer Technique, a structured sequence of mobilisation techniques often used in osteopathic manual therapy. Both groups will also receive conventional therapy including moist heat, TENS, Codman exercises, finger ladder exercises, and capsular stretching. The intervention will be administered three times per week over a 4-week period. Primary outcome measures include shoulder pain assessed by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), range of motion measured by a universal goniometer, and functional status assessed by the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI). Data will be analysed using SPSS 25.0. Parametric or non-parametric tests will be applied based on data distribution. The findings of this study aim to provide evidence for clinical decision-making in the manual therapy treatment of frozen shoulder and may help establish more effective, hands-on techniques in physiotherapy practice.