OBJECTIVES: Rotator cuff syndrome (RCS) is a common upper extremity musculoskeletal condition in the working population, often leading to prolonged work absences. This study assesses and contrasts the impacts of Mulligan mobilization (MWM) and transverse friction massage in individuals with RCS. METHODS: A randomized clinical trial was conducted at Northwest General Hospital and Research Centre in Peshawar from January to June 2023. The trial involved 42 participants in the age range of 30 and 70 years who had grade I/II rotator cuff tear and pain. These participants were randomly divided into two groups. Group A was administered MWM, while group B received transverse friction massage in addition to standard care. Both groups received a sixweek treatment and were evaluated at the beginning, third and sixth weeks using the visual analogue scale to measure pain, goniometry to assess shoulder range, and the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) questionnaire to evaluate physical function. RESULTS: The between-group comparison showed a significant difference in VAS, shoulder ranges, and DASH scores in both groups in the third and sixth weeks (p < 0.05). The pairwise comparisons within group A indicated a significant difference in VAS, shoulder ranges and DASH scores at baseline, the third week and the sixth week with p < 0.05. Similarly, pairwise comparisons within group B showed a significant difference in VAS, shoulder ranges and DASH scores at the baseline, third week, and sixth week, with a value of p < 0.05. DISCUSSION: The study concluded that MWM with movement and transverse friction massage can improve pain intensity, shoulder ranges, and physical function in people with grade (I) or grade (II) RSC.

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