Effect of scapular muscle endurance on chronic shoulder pain in textile workers

Abstract

Objective:

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of scapular muscle endurance on chronic shoulder pain in textile workers.

Methods:

In total, 91 textile workers were divided into two groups based on the presence ( $\mathit{n}=43$ ) or absence ( $\mathit{n}=48$ ) of chronic shoulder pain, as assessed using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ). The endurance of the serratus anterior and trapezius muscles was assessed using the Scapular Muscle Endurance (SME) test.

Results:

In the group with chronic shoulder pain, mean scapular muscle endurance was significantly lower than that in the pain-free group (t-test, $\mathit{p}\mathrm{<}0.05$ ). There was a significant negative correlation between rest – activity pain intensity and SME (Pearson correlation analysis, $\mathit{p}\mathrm{<}0.01$ ).

Conclusions:

Scapular muscle endurance has an effect on the development of shoulder pain in textile workers.