Comparison between Effectiveness of Mets and Static Stretching on Trapezius in Upper Cross Syndrome

Abstract

Background: Upper cross syndrome involves an imbalance between the muscles of the anterior and upper trunk and the posterior skeletal muscles, leading to postural and functional issues. Muscle Energy Techniques (METs) and stretching exercises are common interventions, but their comparative effectiveness remains unclear.Objective: The study aimed to compare the effectiveness of METs and stretching in treating pain and improving functional status in patients with upper cross syndrome.Methods: This randomized clinical trial was conducted at the Physical Therapy Department of Mayo Hospital, Lahore, over six months. Sixty-two patients with upper cross syndrome were randomly assigned to two groups, each consisting of 31 participants. Group 1 received METs and conventional therapy, while Group 2 received static stretching and conventional therapy. The primary outcome measures were pain intensity, measured by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and functional status, assessed using the Neck Disability Index (NDI). The intervention period lasted four weeks, and statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 25.Results: In Group 1, the pre-treatment VAS score was 7.41 (± 1.08), decreasing to 3.41 (± 1.11) post-treatment, while in Group 2, the VAS score dropped from 7.16 (± 1.50) to 4.87 (± 1.56). The pre-treatment NDI score in Group 1 was 40.19 (± 6.15), which improved to 32.51 (± 6.16) post-treatment. In Group 2, the NDI score improved from 40.06 (± 5.88) to 35.74 (± 5.82). Both groups demonstrated significant improvement in pain and functional status, with METs showing greater effectiveness (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Muscle Energy Techniques were more effective in reducing pain and improving functional status in patients with upper cross syndrome compared to stretching exercises.