Conservative Rehabilitation Program for Osteochondroma of the Scapula: A Case Report

Abstract

One of the most frequent cartilage-capped outgrowths that develop beneath the periosteum due to cartilage ossification is osteochondroma. The second decade of life is noted as the most prevalent age of presentation. This case report looks at an uncommon osteochondroma presentation in a 20-year-old female with swelling along the right inferomedial border of the scapula. The patient presented with complaints of difficulty in daily activities and exhibited altered posture, decreased range of motion (ROM), muscle weakness, and altered shoulder function. The clinical assessment highlighted restricted shoulder and cervical ROM and muscle weakness in the trapezius, rhomboids, serratus anterior, and other surrounding muscles. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an inferomedial bony outgrowth indicative of osteochondroma. A comprehensive physiotherapy intervention protocol for eight weeks was designed to alleviate pain, improve mobility, restore ROM, strengthen weakened muscles, correct posture, and enhance functions that were restricted. The protocol encompassed various techniques, such as muscle energy techniques (MET), proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF), cold therapy, stretching, scapular mobilization, resistance exercises with TheraBand, postural correction exercises, ergonomic adjustments, scapular stabilization exercises, and 'J'-taping to aid in muscle activation and address rounded shoulder posture. Outcome measures for cervical and shoulder ROM and strength were measured to note the progression after rehabilitation. The case report emphasizes the importance of a tailored physiotherapy rehabilitation protocol in managing osteochondroma-related symptoms, showing the potential benefits of multifaceted interventions in alleviating pain, improving function, and boosting the quality of life for individuals with similar presentations.