Research Information System
Karya Journal of Health Science, vol.6, pp.7-13, 2025 (Peer-Reviewed Journal)
Objective: Rotator cuff tears (RCT) were common shoulder injuries that caused pain, strength loss, and functional impairment. This study assessed the effectiveness of adding breathing exercises to conventional physiotherapy to alleviate pain and improve functionality in individuals with RCT.
Method: In this single-blind, randomized controlled trial, 30 participants aged 30–55 with diagnosed RCT were allocated into two groups: the Conventional Group (CG), receiving standard physiotherapy, and the Breathing Exercise Group (BEG), receiving standard physiotherapy plus breathing exercises for six weeks. Outcome measures included pain intensity assessed by the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NRS), range of motion (ROM) measured with a goniometer, and shoulder functionality evaluated using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire.
Results: Baseline demographic and clinical parameters did not differ significantly between groups (p>0.05). Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in pain, ROM, and DASH scores post-treatment (p<0.05). However, BEG showed superior improvements in nearly all outcomes, with statistically significant differences in NRS-activity, DASH scores, and ROM (flexion, abduction, internal and external rotation) compared to CG (p<0.05). No significant difference was observed in shoulder extension ROM between the groups.
Conclusion: The integration of breathing exercises into conventional physiotherapy significantly enhances pain relief and functional outcomes in individuals with RCT. These findings support the inclusion of breathing exercises as a complementary approach in conservative rehabilitation programs for rotator cuff injuries.