Upward pulling plus exercise improves scapulocostal pain and scapular position

[Purpose] To investigate the effect of upward pulling combined with shoulder retraction (upward pulling plus exercise) on scapulocostal pain and scapular position. [Subject and Methods] A 22-year-old woman with severe pain in the right and left scapulocostal areas. The horizontal distance from the inferior angle to the spinal process was measured. The tester assessed scapulocostal pain after stretching and massage. The tester assessed pain after upward pulling plus exercise. [Results] Left and right scapulocostal pain reduced to 2/10 after the upward pulling plus exercise. The horizontal distance from the inferior angle to the spinal process also decreased. [Conclusion] Upward pulling plus exercise might be recommended as a primary therapeutic approach to treat scapulocostal pain or scapulocostal syndrome.