Physiotherapy experience with mobilization with movement for limited belt-tying movement

Abstract

[Objective] We report the immediate effects of the mobilization with movement (MWM） approach for a patient with limited belt-tying movement. [Case presentation] A woman in her 60s sustained multiple fractures in a fall. Her chief complaints were back pain, and pain during the belt-tying movement and elevation of the shoulder joint. [Evaluation and treatment] Contracture of the posterior inferior tissue of the shoulder joint and a deviated movement pattern of the trunk and scapula during the belt-tying movement were observed. Accordingly, MWM for internal rotation of the shoulder joint was carried out. [Results] Although the range of motion and muscle strength of the shoulder joint did not improve, the distance between the spinous process of the fifth lumbar vertebra and the thumb tip (L5-TD) increased from 5 cm to 19 cm, demonstrating a marked immediate effect. [Conclusion] MWM for internal rotation of the shoulder joint may be a useful intervention at the thoracic spine level for the belt-tying movement.