Efficacy of Strengthening Exercises on Shoulder Pain and Shoulder Function among Individuals with Rotator Cuff Injuries

Background and Purpose: Rotator cuff injury is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain and functional limitation, particularly in athletes and individuals involved in repetitive overhead activities. The condition leads to inflammation, muscle weakness, and a restricted range of motion, significantly affecting daily and sporting activities. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of strengthening exercises in reducing pain and improving shoulder range of motion among individuals with rotator cuff injury, compared with ultrasound therapy alone. Methodology: An experimental study was conducted on thirty subjects aged 25–50 years, clinically diagnosed with rotator cuff injury. Participants were randomly divided into two groups of 15 each. Group A received ultrasound therapy alone, while Group B received a combination of ultrasound therapy and strengthening exercises focusing on shoulder flexion, abduction, and external rotation. Treatments were administered three times per week for four weeks. Pain intensity was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and shoulder range of motion was measured using a universal goniometer. Results: Data were analyzed using paired and independent t-tests, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Both groups demonstrated significant improvement in pain and shoulder range of motion after treatment (p < 0.001). However, Group B showed greater reduction in pain and superior gains in shoulder movements compared to Group A. Conclusion: Strengthening exercises are more effective than ultrasound therapy alone in reducing pain and improving shoulder mobility in individuals with rotator cuff injury. Journal For Basic Sciences ISSN NO : 1006-8341 Volume