Interventions
CM
In the CTSC group, the intervention consisted of the following three treatment techniques: TTM, SSE, and CM. These treatment techniques were provided for 12 sessions over a period of four weeks. TTM was administered 15 min per session to the upper trunk area by a trained massage therapist. TTM points used in the present study were located along five lines on each side of the upper trunk (Figs. TTM points used in the present study (The anterior side of the upper trunk)TTM points used in the present study (The posterior side of the upper trunk)The massage therapist used the thumb to apply pressure for 5 s per pointThe massage therapist used the thumb to apply pressure, along with passive muscle elongationStretching exercises for upper trapezius, posterior neck, and rhomboidsScapular protraction with an elastic bandScapular retraction with an elastic bandScapular depressionSupine chin tuckingPassive lateral costal chest wall mobilizationPassive lateral costal chest wall mobilization in the side-lying positionFirst rib mobilizationIn the control group, the participants relaxed by lying supine in the same environment and for the same period as the CTSC group. In addition, all participants in both groups received a pamphlet describing self-care for people with FHP (Additional file 