Immediate effects of an end-range mobilization technique on shoulder range of motion and skin temperature in individuals with posterior shoulder tightness

[Purpose] This study investigated the effects of an end-range mobilization technique on the range of motion of the glenohumeral internal rotation and the skin temperature of the shoulder in individuals with posterior shoulder tightness. [Subjects] Thirteen subjects with posterior shoulder tightness who had glenohumeral internal rotation deficit >= 15 degrees participated. [Methods] All subjects underwent glenohumeral joint end-range mobilization intervention. The internal rotation range of motion of the glenohumeral joint was measured by a goniometer and the shoulder skin temperature was measured by a digital infrared thermographic imaging device before and immediately after the intervention. Paired t-tests were used to analyze the differences in these parameter pre and post-intervention. [Results] The glenohumeral internal rotation range of motion and skin temperature of the posterolateral shoulder in increased significantly post-intervention. [Conclusion] The end-range mobilization technique is effective for increasing the glenohumeral internal rotation range of motion and skin temperature of the shoulder in individuals with posterior shoulder tightness.