Elbow StiffnessNCT07598526
Comparative Effects of Mulligan Mobilization With and Without Myofascial Release Technique in Management of Post Traumatic Elbow Stiffness
A study testing Group A (Mulligan Mobilization with Myofascial Release Technique) and Group B (Mulligan Mobilization alone) in people with Elbow Stiffness and Elbow Pain, run by University of Faisalabad at 1 site in Pakistan.
Trial summary
The Randomize Clinical Trial will involve 30 participants with post traumatic elbow stiffness recruited from Madinah Teaching Hospital and Chiniot General hospital Faisalabad. Consecutive sampling technique will be used. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 17 to 44 years
- Conditions the study is for
- Elbow Stiffness, Elbow Pain
- What is being tested?
- Group A (Mulligan Mobilization with Myofascial Release Technique) and Group B (Mulligan Mobilization alone)
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 30 participants
- Where
- 1 sitePakistan
- Study dates
- 20 May 2026to 20 Sep 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 17 to 44 years
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Child, Adult
Who may be able to join
- Participants aged between 17 and 44 years will be included in the study (Sun et al., 2025).
- Both male and female patients experiencing mild to moderate elbow pain (3/10 to 5/10 on NPRS) along with restricted range of motion will be eligible (Zulfqar et al., 2021).
- Subjects having elbow movement limitation of more than 30° in extension, flexion less than 120°, and 50° restriction in both pronation and supination will be included (Masci et al., 2020).
- Participants will be recruited 3 to 6 weeks after POP removal, and radiographic confirmation of bone/skeletal healing will be ensured before inclusion (Morrey et al., 2017).
- Patients with both intra-articular and extra-articular fractures will be considered eligible.
- Individuals with DASH scores ranging from 45 to 50 points will be included.
- Only patients willing to participate in the study will be enrolled.
Who cannot join
- Patients with a history of previous surgical excision will be excluded from the study (Zheng et al., 2018).
- Participants presenting with pathological fractures will not be included (Zulfqar et al., 2021).
- Patients in the acute stage of fracture will be excluded from participation (Zulfqar et al., 2021).
- Individuals with metabolic or malignant conditions causing elbow stiffness, such as gout or osteosarcoma, will not be eligible (Fusaro et al., 2014).
- Patients with elbow fractures associated with a history of metal implants will be excluded (Zheng et al., 2018).
- Individuals who have already received physiotherapy treatment or medication for the condition will not be included.
Show all 11Show fewer
- Patients diagnosed with psychological illnesses that may interfere with following instructions will be excluded.
- Participants with brain trauma or referred neurological symptoms, including numbness, dizziness, or hyperesthesia, will not be considered (Fusaro et al., 2014).
- Patients with structural or postural abnormalities involving the shoulder or wrist will be excluded.
- Individuals with open skin wounds or burn injuries around the affected area will not be included.
- Patients with a pre-operative history of arthritis will also be excluded from the study.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Pakistan1 site
Outdoor Patient Department (OPD) of Madinah Teaching Hospital and Chiniot General Hospital, Faisalabad.
Faisalābad, Punjab Province, 38000
About this study
The Randomize Clinical Trial will involve 30 participants with post traumatic elbow stiffness recruited from Madinah Teaching Hospital and Chiniot General hospital Faisalabad. Consecutive sampling technique will be used. Study will include individuals with >30° extension loss and <120° flexion, 50° in both directions for pronation-supination, who are 3-6 weeks post-POP removal from radiograph confirmation of skeletal/bone healing will be insured, who have elbow pain from 3 to 5/10 on NPRS and have fully healed fractures. Both intra-articular and extra-articular injuries will be accepted. DASH Score with 45 to 50 points. Study will exclude pathological or acute fractures, burns, brain trauma, neurological or psychological disorders, history of pre-operative osteoarthritis. Consent will be taken written and verbal from participants before including into study. Patients will be allocated with online randomization generator method into 2 groups. Group A will receive Mulligan Mobilization with Myofascial release technique, while Group B will receive Mulligan Mobilization alone. Hot pack for 20 minutes before treatment and static stretching after treatment will apply in both groups. Each stretch is performed 10 repetition with hold duration of 30 sec and rest period 15 sec between each stretch. Total 3 sessions per week for 4 weeks (12 sessions) on alternative days will be given. Outcome of study will be elbow pain, elbow range of motion (flexion and extension) and functional disability will be measure by using Numerical Pain Rating Scale, Universal Goniometer and Dash Questionnaire Score respectively. Data will be investigated by using SPSS version 2023.
Read the detailed description
Elbow stiffness is a disabling condition that interferes in daily living activities after trauma. The study's goal is to compare the results of Mulligan Mobilization with and without Myofascial Release Technique in management of post traumatic elbow stiffness. The Randomize Clinical Trial will involve 30 participants with post traumatic elbow stiffness recruited from Madinah Teaching Hospital and Chiniot General hospital Faisalabad. Consecutive sampling technique will be used. Study will include individuals with >30° extension loss and <120° flexion, 50° in both directions for pronation-supination, who are 3-6 weeks post-POP removal from radiograph confirmation of skeletal/bone healing will be insured, who have elbow pain from 3 to 5/10 on NPRS and have fully healed fractures. Both intra-articular and extra-articular injuries will be accepted. DASH Score with 45 to 50 points. Study will exclude pathological or acute fractures, burns, brain trauma, neurological or psychological disorders, history of pre-operative osteoarthritis. Consent will be taken written and verbal from participants before including into study. Patients will be allocated with online randomization generator method into 2 groups. Group A will receive Mulligan Mobilization with Myofascial release technique, while Group B will receive Mulligan Mobilization alone. Hot pack for 20 minutes before treatment and static stretching after treatment will apply in both groups. Each stretch is performed 10 repetition with hold duration of 30 sec and rest period 15 sec between each stretch. Total 3 sessions per week for 4 weeks (12 sessions) on alternative days will be given. Outcome of study will be elbow pain, elbow range of motion (flexion and extension) and functional disability will be measure by using Numerical Pain Rating Scale, Universal Goniometer and Dash Questionnaire Score respectively. Data will be investigated by using SPSS version 2023.
- Conditions
- Elbow Stiffness, Elbow Pain
- Being tested
- Group A (Mulligan Mobilization with Myofascial Release Technique), Group B (Mulligan Mobilization alone)
- Keywords
- Post op elbow stiffness, Mulligan Mobilization, Myofascial Release Technique, Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand, Elbow pain
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Group A (Mulligan Mobilization with Myofascial Release Technique)Other
The patient will be positioned supine at the edge of the table with the shoulder abducted to 90°, elbow flexed, and forearm supinated. The therapist will stabilize the distal humerus and use a belt around the pelvis while applying a sustained glide through the forearm. Active elbow flexion/extension will be performed with gentle, pain-free overpressure at end range. The technique will be repeated 6-10 times for 1-3 sets with 15-second rest intervals. Myofascial release will be applied with the patient supine, elbow slightly flexed and forearm pronated. The therapist will treat from lateral epicondyle to wrist extensors while the patient performs small elbow movements. Both groups will receive a hot pack application for 20 minutes as a baseline treatment prior to the intervention, followed by static stretching after the session. Each stretch will be performed for 10 repetitions, with a 30-second hold and a 15-second rest interval between stretches.
Group B (Mulligan Mobilization alone)Other
The patient will be positioned supine at the edge of the table with the shoulder abducted to 90°, elbow flexed, and forearm supinated. The therapist will stabilize the distal humerus and use a belt around the pelvis while applying a sustained glide through the forearm. Active elbow flexion/extension will be performed with gentle, pain-free overpressure at end range. The technique will be repeated 6-10 times for 1-3 sets with 15-second rest intervals. Both groups will receive a hot pack application for 20 minutes as a baseline treatment prior to the intervention, followed by static stretching after the session. Each stretch will be performed for 10 repetitions, with a 30-second hold and a 15-second rest interval between stretches.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Group A (Mulligan Mobilization with Myofascial Release Technique) | Experimental | Participants in Group A will receive a structured treatment program including Mulligan mobilization along with myofascial release techniques aimed at reducing pain, improving functional disability, and enhancing elbow range of motion. Each session will last 40-45 minutes and will be administered three times per week for four weeks. Receives: Other: Group A (Mulligan Mobilization with Myofascial Release Technique) |
| Group B (Mulligan Mobilization alone) | Active comparator | Participants in Group B will be treated with Mulligan Mobilization alone to help reduce pain and improve elbow range of motion. The intervention will be delivered in 40-45 minute sessions, three times per week, for four consecutive weeks. Receives: Other: Group B (Mulligan Mobilization alone) |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Elbow pain
The Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) is an 11-point scale used to assess pain intensity. The scale ranges from 0, indicating no pain, to 10, representing the worst imaginable pain. It is considered a reliable and valid tool for evaluating changes in pain severity over time
Measured: Baseline and week 4
Elbow range of motion
The universal goniometer is a reliable and effective instrument commonly used to assess elbow joint range of motion
Measured: Baseline and week 4
Secondary outcomes (1)
Functional disability
The DASH questionnaire is designed to evaluate upper limb function and related symptoms. It assesses the level of difficulty an individual experiences while performing daily activities involving the arm, shoulder, and hand due to pain, weakness, or movement limitations. The questionnaire contains 30 items, and scores range from 0 (no disability) to 100 (maximum disability), with higher scores indicating greater functional impairment
Measured: Baseline and Week 4
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted20 May 2026
- Study start20 May 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion20 Sep 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion20 Sep 2026 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (15)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Elbow StiffnessStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Model description
- This parallel-group randomized clinical trial will include 30 participants, with sample size calculated using OpenEpi. Patients with post-traumatic elbow stiffness will be recruited from public hospitals of Faisalabad through consecutive sampling. After consent, participants will be randomized using an online generator. Group A will receive Mulligan Mobilization with Myofascial Release, while Group B will receive Mulligan Mobilization alone. Both groups will receive hot packs and static stretching, 3 sessions/week for 4 weeks. Outcomes will include pain, ROM, and disability measured through NPRS, Goniometer, and DASH questionnaire. Data will be analyzed using SPSS 2023.
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Participant
- Enrolment
- 30 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- University of Faisalabad
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Maryam Safdar, University of Faisalabad
- Investigators
- Dr Maryam Safdar, Principal investigator, The University of Faisalabad
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07598526
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- TUF/EIRB/179/26
- Status last verified
- May 2026
- First submitted
- 13 May 2026
- Last updated
- 20 May 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Publications
Zheng W, Liu J, Song J, Fan C. Risk factors for development of severe post-traumatic elbow stiffness. Int Orthop. 2018 Mar;42(3):595-600. doi: 10.1007/s00264-017-3657-1. Epub 2017 Oct 7.
PubMed 28988397Zhang D, Nazarian A, Rodriguez EK. Post-traumatic elbow stiffness: Pathogenesis and current treatments. Shoulder Elbow. 2020 Feb;12(1):38-45. doi: 10.1177/1758573218793903. Epub 2018 Aug 8.
PubMed 32010232Young I, Dunning J, Mourad F, Escaloni J, Bliton P, Fernandez-de-Las-Penas C. Clinimetric analysis of the numeric pain rating scale, patient-rated tennis elbow evaluation, and tennis elbow function scale in patients with lateral elbow tendinopathy. Physiother Theory Pract. 2025 Aug;41(8):1712-1720. doi: 10.1080/09593985.2025.2450090. Epub 2025 Jan 10.
PubMed 39793982van Rijn SF, Zwerus EL, Koenraadt KL, Jacobs WC, van den Bekerom MP, Eygendaal D. The reliability and validity of goniometric elbow measurements in adults: A systematic review of the literature. Shoulder Elbow. 2018 Oct;10(4):274-284. doi: 10.1177/1758573218774326. Epub 2018 Jun 3.
PubMed 30214494Sun Z, Li J, van Riet R, Ho PC, Hildebrand KA, Puah KL, Shih JT, Li Z, Chanlalit C, Kekatpure AL, Zhang K, Liu S, Gong M, Huang F, Yan H, Mi J, Lu J, Zha Y, Xiang Z, Xiang M, Li F, Jiang S, Liu W, Zhong B, Ding J, Ruan H, Ouyang Y, Wang W, Yu S, Chen S, Qian Y, Xu Y, Hu Y, Xu J, Jiang X, Jeon IH, Fan C. Clinical guideline on the open arthrolysis for post-traumatic elbow stiffness in adult patients. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2026 Mar;35(3):811-825. doi: 10.1016/j.jse.2025.07.015. Epub 2025 Aug 25.
PubMed 40865905Pourahmadi MR, Mohsenifar H, Dariush M, Aftabi A, Amiri A. Effectiveness of mobilization with movement (Mulligan concept techniques) on low back pain: a systematic review. Clin Rehabil. 2018 Oct;32(10):1289-1298. doi: 10.1177/0269215518778321. Epub 2018 May 30.
PubMed 29843520Masci G, Cazzato G, Milano G, Ciolli G, Malerba G, Perisano C, Greco T, Osvaldo P, Maccauro G, Liuzza F. The stiff elbow: Current concepts. Orthop Rev (Pavia). 2020 Jun 25;12(Suppl 1):8661. doi: 10.4081/or.2020.8661. eCollection 2020 Jun 29.
PubMed 32913596Ling SK, Lui TH, Faan YS, Lui PW, Ngai WK. Post-traumatic elbow rotational stiffness. Shoulder Elbow. 2014 Apr;6(2):119-23. doi: 10.1177/1758573214524935. Epub 2014 Mar 3.
PubMed 27582925Kain J, Martorello L, Swanson E, Sego S. Comparison of an indirect tri-planar myofascial release (MFR) technique and a hot pack for increasing range of motion. J Bodyw Mov Ther. 2011 Jan;15(1):63-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2009.12.002. Epub 2010 Jan 27.
PubMed 21147420Sevik Kacmaz K, Unver B. Immediate Effects of Mulligan Mobilization on Elbow Proprioception in Healthy Individuals: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Single-Blind Study. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2023 Jan;46(1):59-64. doi: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2023.05.001. Epub 2023 Jul 7.
PubMed 37422752He X, Fen Q, Yang J, Lei Y, Heng L, Zhang K. Risk Factors of Elbow Stiffness After Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of the Terrible Triad of the Elbow Joint. Orthop Surg. 2021 Apr;13(2):530-536. doi: 10.1111/os.12879. Epub 2021 Feb 22.
PubMed 33619861Fusaro I, Orsini S, Stignani Kantar S, Sforza T, Benedetti MG, Bettelli G, Rotini R. Elbow rehabilitation in traumatic pathology. Musculoskelet Surg. 2014 Apr;98 Suppl 1:95-102. doi: 10.1007/s12306-014-0328-x. Epub 2014 Mar 25.
PubMed 24659223Fan M, Xu F, Fei C, Liu Y, Yang Z, Song Z. Post-traumatic elbow stiffness: etiology, risk factors and current treatments. Front Surg. 2025 Aug 26;12:1643326. doi: 10.3389/fsurg.2025.1643326. eCollection 2025.
PubMed 40932855Birinci T, Razak Ozdincler A, Altun S, Kural C. A structured exercise programme combined with proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching or static stretching in posttraumatic stiffness of the elbow: a randomized controlled trial. Clin Rehabil. 2019 Feb;33(2):241-252. doi: 10.1177/0269215518802886. Epub 2018 Oct 10.
PubMed 30304958Akhtar A, Hughes B, Watts AC. The post-traumatic stiff elbow: A review. J Clin Orthop Trauma. 2021 May 19;19:125-131. doi: 10.1016/j.jcot.2021.05.006. eCollection 2021 Aug.
PubMed 34277339
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 20 May 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Comparative Effects of Mulligan Mobilization With and Without Myofascial Release Technique in Management of Post Traumatic Elbow Stiffness
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07598526
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- TUF/EIRB/179/26
- Conditions
- Elbow Stiffness, Elbow Pain
- Keywords
- Post op elbow stiffness, Mulligan Mobilization, Myofascial Release Technique, Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand, Elbow pain
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Not yet recruiting
- Enrolment
- 30 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- University of FaisalabadUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 20 May 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion
- 20 Sep 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 20 Sep 2026 (estimated)
- First posted
- 20 May 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
The Randomize Clinical Trial will involve 30 participants with post traumatic elbow stiffness recruited from Madinah Teaching Hospital and Chiniot General hospital Faisalabad. Consecutive sampling technique will be used. Study will include individuals with >30° extension loss and <120° flexion, 50° in both directions for pronation-supination, who are 3-6 weeks post-POP removal from radiograph confirmation of skeletal/bone healing will be insured, who have elbow pain from 3 to 5/10 on NPRS and have fully healed fractures. Both intra-articular and extra-articular injuries will be accepted. DASH Score with 45 to 50 points. Study will exclude pathological or acute fractures, burns, brain trauma, neurological or psychological disorders, history of pre-operative osteoarthritis. Consent will be taken written and verbal from participants before including into study. Patients will be allocated with online randomization generator method into 2 groups. Group A will receive Mulligan Mobilization with Myofascial release technique, while Group B will receive Mulligan Mobilization alone. Hot pack for 20 minutes before treatment and static stretching after treatment will apply in both groups. Each stretch is performed 10 repetition with hold duration of 30 sec and rest period 15 sec between each stretch. Total 3 sessions per week for 4 weeks (12 sessions) on alternative days will be given. Outcome of study will be elbow pain, elbow range of motion (flexion and extension) and functional disability will be measure by using Numerical Pain Rating Scale, Universal Goniometer and Dash Questionnaire Score respectively. Data will be investigated by using SPSS version 2023.
Detailed description
Elbow stiffness is a disabling condition that interferes in daily living activities after trauma. The study's goal is to compare the results of Mulligan Mobilization with and without Myofascial Release Technique in management of post traumatic elbow stiffness. The Randomize Clinical Trial will involve 30 participants with post traumatic elbow stiffness recruited from Madinah Teaching Hospital and Chiniot General hospital Faisalabad. Consecutive sampling technique will be used. Study will include individuals with >30° extension loss and <120° flexion, 50° in both directions for pronation-supination, who are 3-6 weeks post-POP removal from radiograph confirmation of skeletal/bone healing will be insured, who have elbow pain from 3 to 5/10 on NPRS and have fully healed fractures. Both intra-articular and extra-articular injuries will be accepted. DASH Score with 45 to 50 points. Study will exclude pathological or acute fractures, burns, brain trauma, neurological or psychological disorders, history of pre-operative osteoarthritis. Consent will be taken written and verbal from participants before including into study. Patients will be allocated with online randomization generator method into 2 groups. Group A will receive Mulligan Mobilization with Myofascial release technique, while Group B will receive Mulligan Mobilization alone. Hot pack for 20 minutes before treatment and static stretching after treatment will apply in both groups. Each stretch is performed 10 repetition with hold duration of 30 sec and rest period 15 sec between each stretch. Total 3 sessions per week for 4 weeks (12 sessions) on alternative days will be given. Outcome of study will be elbow pain, elbow range of motion (flexion and extension) and functional disability will be measure by using Numerical Pain Rating Scale, Universal Goniometer and Dash Questionnaire Score respectively. Data will be investigated by using SPSS version 2023.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (participant)
- Number of arms
- 2
- Model description
- This parallel-group randomized clinical trial will include 30 participants, with sample size calculated using OpenEpi. Patients with post-traumatic elbow stiffness will be recruited from public hospitals of Faisalabad through consecutive sampling. After consent, participants will be randomized using an online generator. Group A will receive Mulligan Mobilization with Myofascial Release, while Group B will receive Mulligan Mobilization alone. Both groups will receive hot packs and static stretching, 3 sessions/week for 4 weeks. Outcomes will include pain, ROM, and disability measured through NPRS, Goniometer, and DASH questionnaire. Data will be analyzed using SPSS 2023.
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Group A (Mulligan Mobilization with Myofascial Release Technique) | Experimental | Other: Group A (Mulligan Mobilization with Myofascial Release Technique)Participants in Group A will receive a structured treatment program including Mulligan mobilization along with myofascial release techniques aimed at reducing pain, improving functional disability, and enhancing elbow range of motion. Each session will last 40-45 minutes and will be administered three times per week for four weeks. |
| Group B (Mulligan Mobilization alone) | Active comparator | Other: Group B (Mulligan Mobilization alone)Participants in Group B will be treated with Mulligan Mobilization alone to help reduce pain and improve elbow range of motion. The intervention will be delivered in 40-45 minute sessions, three times per week, for four consecutive weeks. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 17 to 44 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Child, Adult
Key inclusion criteria (7 listed)
- Participants aged between 17 and 44 years will be included in the study (Sun et al., 2025).
- Both male and female patients experiencing mild to moderate elbow pain (3/10 to 5/10 on NPRS) along with restricted range of motion will be eligible (Zulfqar et al., 2021).
- Subjects having elbow movement limitation of more than 30° in extension, flexion less than 120°, and 50° restriction in both pronation and supination will be included (Masci et al., 2020).
- Participants will be recruited 3 to 6 weeks after POP removal, and radiographic confirmation of bone/skeletal healing will be ensured before inclusion (Morrey et al., 2017).
- Patients with both intra-articular and extra-articular fractures will be considered eligible.
Key exclusion criteria (11 listed)
- Patients with a history of previous surgical excision will be excluded from the study (Zheng et al., 2018).
- Participants presenting with pathological fractures will not be included (Zulfqar et al., 2021).
- Patients in the acute stage of fracture will be excluded from participation (Zulfqar et al., 2021).
- Individuals with metabolic or malignant conditions causing elbow stiffness, such as gout or osteosarcoma, will not be eligible (Fusaro et al., 2014).
- Patients with elbow fractures associated with a history of metal implants will be excluded (Zheng et al., 2018).
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Group A (Mulligan Mobilization with Myofascial Release Technique)The patient will be positioned supine at the edge of the table with the shoulder abducted to 90°, elbow flexed, and forearm supinated. The therapist will stabilize the distal humerus and use a belt around the pelvis while applying a sustained glide through the forearm. Active elbow flexion/extension will be performed with gentle, pain-free overpressure at end range. The technique will be repeated 6-10 times for 1-3 sets with 15-second rest intervals. Myofascial release will be applied with the patient supine, elbow slightly flexed and forearm pronated. The therapist will treat from lateral epicondyle to wrist extensors while the patient performs small elbow movements. Both groups will receive a hot pack application for 20 minutes as a baseline treatment prior to the intervention, followed by static stretching after the session. Each stretch will be performed for 10 repetitions, with a 30-second hold and a 15-second rest interval between stretches. | Other | Group A (Mulligan Mobilization with Myofascial Release Technique) |
| Group B (Mulligan Mobilization alone)The patient will be positioned supine at the edge of the table with the shoulder abducted to 90°, elbow flexed, and forearm supinated. The therapist will stabilize the distal humerus and use a belt around the pelvis while applying a sustained glide through the forearm. Active elbow flexion/extension will be performed with gentle, pain-free overpressure at end range. The technique will be repeated 6-10 times for 1-3 sets with 15-second rest intervals. Both groups will receive a hot pack application for 20 minutes as a baseline treatment prior to the intervention, followed by static stretching after the session. Each stretch will be performed for 10 repetitions, with a 30-second hold and a 15-second rest interval between stretches. | Other | Group B (Mulligan Mobilization alone) |
Primary outcome
Elbow pain
Time frame: Baseline and week 4
The Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) is an 11-point scale used to assess pain intensity. The scale ranges from 0, indicating no pain, to 10, representing the worst imaginable pain. It is considered a reliable and valid tool for evaluating changes in pain severity over time
Elbow range of motion
Time frame: Baseline and week 4
The universal goniometer is a reliable and effective instrument commonly used to assess elbow joint range of motion
1 secondary outcome
Functional disability
Time frame: Baseline and Week 4
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 20 May 2026.
- Background: PubMed 28988397Zheng W, Liu J, Song J, Fan C. Risk factors for development of severe post-traumatic elbow stiffness. Int Orthop. 2018 Mar;42(3):595-600. doi: 10.1007/s00264-017-3657-1. Epub 2017 Oct 7.
- Background: PubMed 32010232Zhang D, Nazarian A, Rodriguez EK. Post-traumatic elbow stiffness: Pathogenesis and current treatments. Shoulder Elbow. 2020 Feb;12(1):38-45. doi: 10.1177/1758573218793903. Epub 2018 Aug 8.
- Background: PubMed 39793982Young I, Dunning J, Mourad F, Escaloni J, Bliton P, Fernandez-de-Las-Penas C. Clinimetric analysis of the numeric pain rating scale, patient-rated tennis elbow evaluation, and tennis elbow function scale in patients with lateral elbow tendinopathy. Physiother Theory Pract. 2025 Aug;41(8):1712-1720. doi: 10.1080/09593985.2025.2450090. Epub 2025 Jan 10.
- Background: PubMed 30214494van Rijn SF, Zwerus EL, Koenraadt KL, Jacobs WC, van den Bekerom MP, Eygendaal D. The reliability and validity of goniometric elbow measurements in adults: A systematic review of the literature. Shoulder Elbow. 2018 Oct;10(4):274-284. doi: 10.1177/1758573218774326. Epub 2018 Jun 3.
- Background: PubMed 40865905Sun Z, Li J, van Riet R, Ho PC, Hildebrand KA, Puah KL, Shih JT, Li Z, Chanlalit C, Kekatpure AL, Zhang K, Liu S, Gong M, Huang F, Yan H, Mi J, Lu J, Zha Y, Xiang Z, Xiang M, Li F, Jiang S, Liu W, Zhong B, Ding J, Ruan H, Ouyang Y, Wang W, Yu S, Chen S, Qian Y, Xu Y, Hu Y, Xu J, Jiang X, Jeon IH, Fan C. Clinical guideline on the open arthrolysis for post-traumatic elbow stiffness in adult patients. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2026 Mar;35(3):811-825. doi: 10.1016/j.jse.2025.07.015. Epub 2025 Aug 25.
- Background: PubMed 29843520Pourahmadi MR, Mohsenifar H, Dariush M, Aftabi A, Amiri A. Effectiveness of mobilization with movement (Mulligan concept techniques) on low back pain: a systematic review. Clin Rehabil. 2018 Oct;32(10):1289-1298. doi: 10.1177/0269215518778321. Epub 2018 May 30.
- Background: PubMed 32913596Masci G, Cazzato G, Milano G, Ciolli G, Malerba G, Perisano C, Greco T, Osvaldo P, Maccauro G, Liuzza F. The stiff elbow: Current concepts. Orthop Rev (Pavia). 2020 Jun 25;12(Suppl 1):8661. doi: 10.4081/or.2020.8661. eCollection 2020 Jun 29.
- Background: PubMed 27582925Ling SK, Lui TH, Faan YS, Lui PW, Ngai WK. Post-traumatic elbow rotational stiffness. Shoulder Elbow. 2014 Apr;6(2):119-23. doi: 10.1177/1758573214524935. Epub 2014 Mar 3.
- Background: PubMed 21147420Kain J, Martorello L, Swanson E, Sego S. Comparison of an indirect tri-planar myofascial release (MFR) technique and a hot pack for increasing range of motion. J Bodyw Mov Ther. 2011 Jan;15(1):63-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2009.12.002. Epub 2010 Jan 27.
- Background: PubMed 37422752Sevik Kacmaz K, Unver B. Immediate Effects of Mulligan Mobilization on Elbow Proprioception in Healthy Individuals: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Single-Blind Study. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2023 Jan;46(1):59-64. doi: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2023.05.001. Epub 2023 Jul 7.
- Background: PubMed 33619861He X, Fen Q, Yang J, Lei Y, Heng L, Zhang K. Risk Factors of Elbow Stiffness After Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of the Terrible Triad of the Elbow Joint. Orthop Surg. 2021 Apr;13(2):530-536. doi: 10.1111/os.12879. Epub 2021 Feb 22.
- Background: PubMed 24659223Fusaro I, Orsini S, Stignani Kantar S, Sforza T, Benedetti MG, Bettelli G, Rotini R. Elbow rehabilitation in traumatic pathology. Musculoskelet Surg. 2014 Apr;98 Suppl 1:95-102. doi: 10.1007/s12306-014-0328-x. Epub 2014 Mar 25.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
Related trials for Elbow Stiffness
Not yet recruiting
Comparison of GMI, PNF, and Standard Care for Post-Traumatic Elbow Stiffness Rehabilitation in Adults
Elbow Stiffess, Rehabilitation Treatment
Not yet recruiting
Mulligan Mobilization in Lateral Elbow Tendinopathy
Lateral Elbow Tendinopathy (Tennis Elbow)
Active, not recruitingObservational study
Association Between Racket Stiffness and Lateral Epicondylalgia in Tennis Players
Tennis Elbow
Recruiting
Comparative Effects of Scooping Mobilization and Dynamic Cupping Therapy on Elbow Stiffness
Children, Adults
Recruiting
Effect of Muscle Energy Technique in Children With Post Traumatic Elbow Stiffness
Elbow Injuries
Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
Dr Maryam Safdar principal investigator
The University of Faisalabad
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Group A (Mulligan Mobilization with Myofascial Release Technique) and Group B (Mulligan Mobilization alone) in people with Elbow Stiffness and Elbow Pain, run by University of Faisalabad at 1 site in Pakistan.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 7 inclusion and 11 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: opening soon, as of the sponsor's last update on 20 May 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Pakistan. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact Maryam Safdar Dr, MS Physical Therapy (MSK) (+92-3217978088, maryamsafdar.DPT@tuf.edu.pk), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Elbow pain (time frame: Baseline and week 4). The study lists 2 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT07598526, which also lists 15 linked publications.
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 20 May 2026.