Comparison of Niel-Asher and Spencer Techniques in Frozen Shoulder Patients

Launched by RIPHAH INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY · Jul 14, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at two different hands-on therapy methods—the Niel-Asher Technique and the Spencer Technique—to see which one works better when combined with regular physiotherapy for people with frozen shoulder. Frozen shoulder is a condition that causes pain and makes it hard to move the shoulder. The study will include 44 adults between 35 and 65 years old who have been diagnosed with stage II frozen shoulder, meaning they are in the “freezing” phase where stiffness and pain are common. Participants will be split into two groups: both will get standard treatment like heat therapy, electrical stimulation (called TENS), and stretching exercises, but one group will also receive the Niel-Asher Technique, while the other group will get the Spencer Technique.

If you join the study, you can expect to have your pain levels, shoulder movement, and how well your shoulder works measured before and after four weeks of treatment. The study will use simple tools to track these changes, helping doctors understand which therapy might help patients feel better and move more easily. To be eligible, you need to be between 35 and 65 years old with stage II frozen shoulder, have significant movement limitation, and pain that is moderate (less than 7 out of 10). People with certain health issues like diabetes or past shoulder injuries won’t be able to join. This study isn’t recruiting yet, but if you qualify, it could be a helpful way to find better treatment options for frozen shoulder.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age group between 35-65 years diagnosed with primary Adhesive Capsulitis.
• • Both gender male and female.
• • Both Active and passive Range of Motion is limited.
• • Stage II Frozen Shoulder patients (Freezing Stage,3-9 months).
• • More than 50% of range of motion is limited in Flexion, Abduction and External rotation as compared to unaffected side.
• • Pain reported on VAS score \<7/10 in shoulder region.
• • Patients agree to sign written consent form.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• * Patients with systemic illness:
• • Diabetes Mellitus, Thyroid disorders.
• • Rheumatoid Arthritis, Malignancy.
• * Patients with mechanical injuries like:
• • Rotator Cuff injury, Ligamentous Injuries.23
• • Previous Surgery or Manipulation under Anesthesia.
• • Patients with Stage I, III, IV of Frozen Shoulder.
• • Patient reported with VAS score \>7/10 in shoulder region.