Improvement In Neck Pain Research Articles

Effects of Auricular Acupressure on Pain and Stress in Nursing College Students With Cervical Pain: A Single-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial

PurposeThis study aimed to examine the effects of auricular acupressure (AA) on neck pain and stress in nursing students with neck pain. MethodsThis single-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled comparative pretest-posttest study involved administering AA for four weeks. The subjects included nursing students experiencing neck pain. The experimental group comprised 17 subjects, and the control group comprised 14 subjects. In the experimental group, AA was applied to the Shenmen, cervical vertebrae, shoulder, and liver areas to improve neck pain and reduce stress. In the control group, AA was applied to the anus, rectum, urethra, and external genitalia areas, which are not associated with neck pain and stress. To assess the intervention effects, NRS (Numeric Rating Scale), NDI (Neck Disability Index), and PSS (Perceived Stress Scale) scores were measured. ResultsThe NRS scores in the experimental group with AA significantly decreased over time (F = 7.463, p < .001). The between group and group-by-time interaction results were F = 8.564, p = .007 and F = 3.252, p = .025, respectively. The NDI scores in the experimental group showed a statistically significant difference between the groups (F = 13.762, p = .001); however, there were no significant differences over time or in the group-by-time interaction (F = 1.086, p = .347) (F = .301, p = .757). The PSS scores in the experimental group decreased significantly over time (F = 5.557, p = .013), but there were no significant differences between the groups (F = .636, p = .432) or in the group-by-time interaction (F = .063, p = .891). ConclusionAA applied for four weeks was found to be safe, noninvasive, and effective in reducing neck pain in nursing students with cervical pain.

Drive away neck pain: Transformative motor control therapeutic neck exercises and tailored programs redefine posture for automotive workers.

Neck discomfort, arising from strained muscles, poor posture, accidents, or underlying medical conditions, significantly impacts daily activities and overall well-being, presenting a substantial healthcare challenge. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of motor control therapeutic neck exercise and a Structured Exercise Program on neck pain and posture among automobile industrial workers. Using a lottery technique, 106 participants aged 20 to 45 were selected from the vicinity of Chennai's auto industries based on predetermined eligibility and exclusion criteria. Subsequently, participants were randomly assigned to either the motor control therapeutic neck exercise group or the structured exercise program group, each comprising 53 individuals. Participants received a comprehensive overview of the study and respective interventions, and their informed consent was obtained. Demographic details, Neck Injury and Disability scores, and Assessment of Postural and Ergonomic Characteristics data were then collected. Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference between the groups, with the Motor Control Therapeutic Neck Exercise group demonstrating superior outcomes in reducing pain and improving posture, with p-values less than 0.001. This study highlights the efficacy of Motor Control Therapeutic Neck Exercise over Structured Exercise in improving neck pain and posture among automobile industrial workers. These findings contribute valuable insights for the development of targeted interventions in occupational health settings.

O218: Biomechanical and Ergonomic Risks Associated with Cervical Musculoskeletal Dysfunction amongst Surgeons: A Systematic Review

Abstract Introduction Surgeons are at high risk of developing musculoskeletal symptoms due to a range of factors including, maladaptive positioning, surgical ergonomics, and surgeon characteristics. Cervical muscle strain and biomechanical load is most prevalent due to repetitive motions and prolonged static neck positioning1. However, recommendations to improve cervical health of surgeons are limited. This issue is apparent through reports of prevalence between 10 – 74.4% among surgeons2,3. The aim of this systematic review is to provide an objective assessment of the clinical evidence available and a descriptive analysis of the effects of kinematics and surgical ergonomics on the prevalence of surgeons’ cervical musculoskeletal pain. Results A total of 2474 articles were identified on initial search, of which 1046 were duplicates and were removed from review. Abstracts and full texts remaining were then screened, with 9 studies included in the final qualitative analysis. The use of loupes, open surgery and excessive neck flexion (&amp;gt; 30 degrees) were associated with cervical dysfunction. Comparison of study outcomes was challenging due to heterogeneity within study methods and the paucity of methodological quality. This precluded formal meta-analysis. Conclusion The current literature assessing ergonomic and biomechanical factors predisposing surgeons to cervical musculoskeletal dysfunction is insufficient to provide reliable guidance for clinicians. Although the literature has identified factors that contribute to work-related cervical dysfunction, few have attempted to evaluate interventions for improved surgical ergonomics. An objective assessment of interventions that promote postural correction with the aim to improve neck pain scores in surgeon cohorts is warranted.

The immediate effects of deep transverse friction massage, high- power pain threshold ultrasound and whole body vibration on active myofascial trigger points

BackgroundThe most important clinical problem in myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is trigger points (TrPs). The aim of the present study was to investigate the comparison of immediate effect of deep transverse friction massage (DTFM), high-power pain threshold ultrasound (HPPTUS), and whole body vibration (WBV) on treatment of active myofascial trigger points (MTrPs).Materials and Methods: sixty six men with active TrPs of upper trapezius muscle were randomly divided into three equal groups: DTFM, HPPT US, and WBV. Pain intensity based on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), pressure pain threshold (PPT) and active contralateral lateral flexion range of motion (CLF ROM) of the neck were evaluated before and immediately after the interventions. ResultsThe VAS, PPT and the active CLF ROM were substantially improved after intervention in all groups (P < 0.01). When the three groups were compared regarding VAS, participants in the WBV group reported significantly more reduction in pain (P < 0.01). On comparing the interventions, there were no significant differences in PPT values (P > 0.05). The CLF ROM value in HPPTUS and WBV groups have significant increase in comparison to the DTFM group. ConclusionAll three interventions can improve neck pain, PPT and ROM in participants with active TrPs in upper trapezius muscle, but due to the fact that the DTFM has more pressure on therapist fingers, and the HPPTUS technique requires proper interaction with the participants, WBV can be used as one of the effective intervention on active MTrPs of upper trapezius. Clinical trial registration numberIRCT20200518047498N1.

Does reduction mammoplasty improve neck pain and quality of life?

Macromastia often leads to physical complaints involving pain in the shoulder/neck area. In Germany, there are virtually no reliable data on the effects of breast reduction surgery with regard to neck and spine complaints. Therefore, the authors carried out aretrospective study to investigate the effect of breast-reducing surgery on neck pain and quality of life. Between January1, 2014 and December31, 2019, 107 breast reductions were performed for macromastia. Medical records and OP reports were evaluated, and the indication for breast reduction documented. Pain was recorded preoperatively on avisual analog scale (VAS). Pretreatments and perioperative complications were also documented and evaluated. All patients were sent aquestionnaire, which determined whether the objective of the operation had been achieved, how satisfied the patients were with the result of the operation, and how severe the current pain (VAS) was. The EQ-5D3L health questionnaire was used to assess quality of life, and the Neck-Disability Index was used to assess neck complaints. Statistical analysis was carried out using the Wilcoxon test. After an average of 56.5months (min:18, max:90), 76/107 (71%) patients could be re-examined. There were 15complications. Pain improved from an average of 7.2 preoperatively (min:0, max:10) to an average of 1.6 postoperatively (min:0, max:4; p < 0.001). The Neck-Disability Index improved from an average of 43.8% (Min:0, Max:82) to an average of 10.8% (Min:0, Max:52) postoperatively (p < 0.001). In all, 71/76 (93%) of the examined patients were very satisfied or satisfied with the result of the operation. With this study, the authors were able to show that there are often several reasons why breast reduction surgery is performed in patients with macromastia. Ahigh patient satisfaction rate can be achieved and orthopedic clinical complaints associated with macromastia can be treated with avery high success rate.

Effect of suboccipital release technique in forward head posture: A comparative study

Background: Forward head posture is a postural malalignment. It can lead to increased neck pain and decreased neck mobility. Objective: The purpose of this study was to find added effect of suboccipital release technique with conventional treatment on neck pain, disability, mobility, and craniovertebral angle (CVA) in forward head population. Materials and Methods: Fifty subjects with forward head posture and neck pain were randomly allocated in two groups. Experimental group (Group A) was given myofascial release to suboccipital group of muscles along with conventional treatment and control group (Group B) received conventional treatment. Subjects received treatment three times a week, for 2 weeks. By the end of session, pre- and post-comparison was done for neck pain, disability, range of motion, and CVA. Statistical Analysis: Data were analyzed with Winpepe software and Primer software using Wilcoxon signed-rank sum test, Paired t-test, and Mann–Whitney rank sum test. Results: Statistical significance was found between and within the group with respect to pain, disability, and cervical range of motion (P < 0.05). CVA had shown significant results only for within the group. Conclusion: This study concluded that suboccipital release technique along with conventional treatment significantly improve neck pain, disability, and range of motion in forward head posture.

Comparing Between the Effects of Dry Needling and Shock Wave in the Treatment of Trapezius Myofascial Pain

Introduction: Musculoskeletal disorders are important causes of pain. Trigger points are one of the common reasons for myofascial pain. This study aimed to compare a single session of dry needling versus a single session of shock wave therapy on the level of pain and Range of Motion (ROM) in the people with Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) of the upper trapezius muscle. Materials and Methods: Sixteen men with active trigger points of upper trapezius muscle were voluntarily attended in this study. They were randomly assigned into two groups. The patients were under a single session treatment of either dry needling or shock wave therapy. Level of pain (by Visual Analog Scale [VAS]) and active ROM of neck lateral flexion (by goniometer) were evaluated once before the treatment and immediately after the intervention. Results: The VAS scores and the neck ROMs were substantially improved at both groups of study immediately after the treatment (P&lt;0.012). However, there were no significant differences between the two groups of interventions in terms of the VAS and ROM scores (P&gt;0.05). Conclusion: Both dry needling and shock wave therapy can improve neck pain and ROM in patients with active trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle.

The utilization of dry needling and an upper extremity exercise program for individuals with cervicogenic headaches: A pilot study

ABSTRACT Objective To investigate whether a combination of dry-needling treatments and upper extremity neuromuscular reeducation exercises can significantly improve neck pain and/or headache-related disability, joint position error, cervical range of motion, and pain pressure threshold in individuals suffering from cervicogenic headache (CGH). Methods This study is a quasi-experimental design. Seven participants met the inclusion criteria and received dry needling to three muscles that reproduced the participant’s headache symptoms and completed the Neck Disability Index (NDI), Headache Disability Inventory (HDI), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS). Participants performed an exercise regimen designed to address strength and mobility of cervical and scapulothoracic musculature. Results There were significant improvements seen in cervical range of motion and neck pain-related disability (NDI) during the 4-week treatment period. Conclusion Dry needling and neuromuscular re-education (NMR) exercises could be effective components of treatment for individuals suffering from CGH to reduce disability and pain.

Adding a smartphone app to global postural re-education to improve neck pain, posture, quality of life, and endurance in people with nonspecific neck pain: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundIn this study, the effect of adding a smartphone app to an 8-week global postural reeducation (GPR) on neck pain, endurance, quality of life, and forward head posture (FHP) in patients with chronic neck pain and FHP was evaluated.MethodsSixty male and female office workers (38.5 ± 9.1 years) with chronic neck pain were randomly assigned into three groups: group 1 (GPR+ a smartphone app, n = 20), group 2 (GPR alone, n = 20), and group 3 (the control group, n = 20). The primary outcome was pain and the secondary outcomes were disability, quality of life, endurance, and posture. Pain, disability, endurance, quality of life, and posture were evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS), neck disability index (NDI), progressive iso-inertial lifting evaluation (PILE) test, quality of life questionnaire (SF-36), and photogrammetry, respectively, at pre-and post-8-week interventions. A one-way analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) has been conducted to statistically analyze the data.ResultsThe GPR+ a smartphone app had statistically significant improvements versus GPR alone in pain (mean difference, − 2.05 ± 0.65, ES (95% CI) − 0.50 (− 1.04 to − 0.01), P = 0.04), disability (difference = 11.5 ± 1.2, ES (95% CI) = 0.31 (0.22 to 0.97), p = 0.033), FHP (difference = 1.6 ± 0.2, ES (95% CI) = 0.31 (0.09 to 0.92), p = 0.047), and endurance (difference = 2 ± 3.3, ES (95% CI) = 0.51 (0.02 to 1.03), p = 0.039). Both of the GPR+ a smartphone app and GPR alone groups had statistically significant differences versus the control group in all outcomes.ConclusionWhen a workplace assessment and management could not be as part of any intervention, adding a smartphone app to GPR for NP may be an appropriate tool to administer a home and work exercise program resulting in elevating pain and disability, as well as improving FHP and endurance.Trial registrationCurrent Controlled Trials using the UMIN-RCT website UMIN000039720. Retrospectively registered on January 9, 2020.

Immediate clinical benefits of combining therapeutic exercise and interferential therapy in adults with chronic neck pain: a randomized controlled trial.

Therapeutic exercise (TE) is highly recommended for the management of non-specific neck pain (NSNP) and has shown promising results combined with interferential current therapy. Yet, the clinical relevance of the pooled effect of these approaches remains uncertain. To investigate the immediate clinical effect size of combining TE and interferential therapy, compared with the isolated use of TE, in adults with chronic NSNP. Randomized, single-blinded, controlled, superiority trial. Outpatients, primary care center. Forty-nine adults with chronic NSNP. Participants with neck pain (grades I or II) lasting for more than 12 weeks were allocated to a TE plus interferential currents group (N.=25) or to a TE only group (N.=24). All individuals underwent treatment 5 times a week for 2 weeks. The primary outcome was current neck pain intensity (11-point Numeric Pain Rating Scale). Secondary outcomes included neck disability (Neck Disability Index) and active cervical range-of-movement (CROM device). Measurements were taken at baseline and immediately after treatment. An intention-to-treat analysis was carried out. To quantify the effect size of the interventions, the relative risk, the absolute and relative risk reduction, and the number needed to treat (NNT) were calculated. A significant time*group effect was found for pain intensity, disability, and neck flexion and right rotation (all, P<0.05). In the analysis for treatment benefit, the NNT was 2 (95% CI: 2 to 4, P<0.001) for neck pain and disability, and 3 (95% CI: 2 to 11, P=0.029) for neck flexion. Adding interferential therapy to TE is clinically more effective than TE alone to immediately improve neck pain and disability, but not active cervical range-of-movement, in adults with persistent neck pain. Our results suggest that this multimodal intervention can be a useful strategy for rehabilitation of patients with NSNP. This is the first study on this topic reporting findings in terms of clinical relevance, which is key to transfer research evidence into practice.

Is the pain pressure threshold linked to the transversus abdominis in women with chronic neck pain?: a preliminary report

Purpose The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between the ultrasonography parameters of transversus abdominis and neck pain manifestations in women with chronic neck pain. Materials and methods Thirty women (mean age: 38.44 ± 9.56 years, BMI: 25.57 ± 3.32 kg/m2) with chronic neck pain were included in the study. The pain severity, disability scores, and bilateral pain pressure threshold of upper trapezius were assessed. The thickness of transversus abdominis in-rest and abdominal draw-in conditions were evaluated by two-dimensional ultrasonography. Pearson’s correlation coefficients and linear regression statistics were determined. Results We found a moderate correlation between the thickness of transversus abdominis in abdominal draw-in and the pain pressure threshold of right (r = 0.636, p < 0.001), and left upper trapezius (r = 0.403, p = 0.03). Moreover, there was a moderate correlation between the pain pressure threshold of the right upper trapezius and the thickness of transversus abdominis in-rest (r = 0.498, p = 0.006). No significant correlation was found between pain intensity, disability scores, and ultrasonography parameters of transversus abdominis. There was also a significant total effect of transversus abdominis’ thickness on abdominal draw-in manoeuvre on predicting pain pressure threshold of right upper trapezius (B = 0.636, SE = 0.765, p < 0.001) and pain pressure threshold of left upper trapezius (B = 0.403, SE = 0.840, p = 0.03). Conclusions Our results revealed that upper trapezius muscle tenderness may associated with decreased muscle thickness of transversus abdominis. Addressing new exercise methodologies including transversus abdominis training in the management of chronic neck pain may be helpful to improve neck pain symptoms.

Efficacy and safety of Shi-style cervical manipulation therapy for treating acute and subacute neck pain: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundNeck pain is a common clinical disease, which seriously affects people’s mental health and quality of life and results in loss of social productivity. Improving neck pain’s curative effect and reducing its recurrence rate are major medical problems. Shi’s manipulation therapy has unique advantages and technical features that aid in the diagnosis and treatment of neck pain. Compared with first-line non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) treatment of neck pain, Shi’s cervical manipulation lacks the relevant research basis of therapeutic advantage, safety, and satisfaction for treating acute and subacute neck pain. Herein, we aim to confirm our hypothesis in a clinical trial that the safety and efficacy of Shi’s cervical manipulation will be more effective, safer, and more satisfactory than NSAIDs to treat acute and subacute neck pain.MethodsIn this multicenter, positive-controlled, randomized clinical trial, traditional analgesic drug (NSAID) is used to evaluate and show that Shi’s manipulation is more effective, safe, and satisfactory for treating acute and subacute neck pain. Overall, 240 subjects are randomly divided into the trial and control groups, with both groups treated by the corresponding main intervention method for up to 12 weeks. Clinical data will be collected before the intervention and immediately after the first treatment; at 3 days and 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks after the intervention; and at 26 and 52 weeks after treatment follow-up of clinical observation index data collection. The clinical observation indices are as follows: (1) cervical pain is the primary observation index, measured by Numerical Rating Scale. The secondary indices include the following: (2) cervical dysfunction index, measured by patient self-evaluation using cervical Neck Disability Index; (3) cervical activity measurement, measured by the cervical vertebra mobility measurement program of Android mobile phone system; (4) overall improvement, measured by patient self-evaluation with SF-36; and (5) satisfactory treatment, determined by patient self-evaluation.DiscussionWe will discuss whether Shi’s cervical manipulation has greater advantages in efficacy, safety, and satisfaction of acute and subacute neck pain than traditional NSAIDs, to provide a scientific basis for the dissemination and application of Shi’s cervical manipulation.Trial registrationChina Registered Clinical Trial Registration Center ChiCTR1900021371. Registered on 17 February 2019

Efficacy of Deep Cervical Flexor Muscle Training on Neck Pain, Functional Disability, and Muscle Endurance in School Teachers: A Clinical Trial.

Background Neck pain (NP) is a common work-related disorder, with high prevalence in the profession of teaching. The daily duties of a school teacher involve head-down postures while reading and writing, which expose them to the risk of developing NP. Deep cervical flexor (DCF) muscles have been reported to have lower endurance in patients with cervical impairment, which has additionally been associated with disability. There is limited evidence regarding the efficacy of training of DCF muscles in occupational NP. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of DCF muscle training on pain, muscle endurance, and functional disability using pressure biofeedback in school teachers with NP. Methods Sixty-five teachers (age, 25-45 years) with more than 5 years of teaching experience participated in this study. They were randomly divided into two groups: the experimental (E) and control (C) groups. In the E group, the subjects underwent DCF muscle training using pressure biofeedback in addition to conventional exercises for neck pain, while those in the C group underwent conventional exercises only. Pain, muscle endurance, and disability were measured at day 0 (before the treatment) and days 14 and 42 after the treatment. Endurance of DCF muscles was measured by the craniocervical flexion test using pressure biofeedback, pain intensity was measured using the numeric pain rating scale, and functional disability was assessed using the neck disability index questionnaire. This study was performed in accordance with CONSORT guidelines. Results On day 0, there were no significant differences in the age, pain, muscle endurance, and disability levels between the groups. After initiating the intervention, although there were improvements in both groups, there was a statistically significant improvement in muscle endurance, pain, and disability in subjects who received additional training with pressure biofeedback. Conclusions Besides increasing muscle endurance, specific training of DCF muscles in addition to conventional exercises can improve neck pain and functional disability. These results should be further correlated clinically. A dedicated time for exercises at school could help prevent the development of NP in teachers. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03537300 May 24, 2018 (retrospectively registered).

Self-Kinematic Training for Flight-Associated Neck Pain: a Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Flight-associated neck pain (FANP) is a serious problem in fighter pilots. Despite the high impact of FANP there is little evidence for effective management. However, self-kinematic training showed a positive effect in the general population. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a self-kinematic training program using virtual reality in improving neck pain in fighter pilots.METHODS: There were 45 pilots with FANP who were randomized to a control group (N 23) or a training group (N 22). Training participants were instructed to exercise using a personalized self-training program, for 20 min/wk, for 4 wk. Primary outcome measures were neck disability (NDI%) and mean velocity ( s1), and secondary were pain, health status, accuracy, and isometric strength. Assessments were conducted by a blinded assessor and intention-to-treat analysis by a blinded statistician.RESULTS: There were 40 pilots who completed the postintervention assessments, and 35 completed the 6-mo follow-up. Baseline measurements showed mild pain and disability (mean VAS 43 22.73, NDI 17.76 9.59%) and high kinematic performance. Compliance with self-training was poor. No differences were observed in self-reported measures and strength. Exercise duration was correlated with NDI% improvement.DISCUSSION: This self-kinematic training promoted kinematic performance, but was ineffective in engaging the pilots to exercise, and consequently did not improve pain and disability. Poor compliance was previously reported in self-training for FANP, suggesting further studies should prioritize supervised training. Considering the high baseline kinematic performance, kinematics does not seem to be a key factor in FANP, and future exercise research should aim for intense strengthening to increase endurance to the high Gz pilots experience.Sarig Bahat H, German D, Palomo G, Gold H, Frankel Nir Y. Self-kinematic training for flight-associated neck pain: a randomized controlled trial. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2020; 91(10):790797.

P106. Impact of predominant preoperative symptoms on outcomes of CDR

BACKGROUND CONTEXT Cervical pathologies can commonly present with both neck and radicular symptoms. Cervical disc replacement (CDR) is typically indicated in the treatment of radicular symptoms, though it has also been shown to improve neck pain. Its efficacy has yet to be studied between patients presenting with primarily neck, arm, or equivalent neck and arm pain. PURPOSE To assess whether predominant preoperative symptom has an impact on outcomes of CDR. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Retrospective review of prospectively collected data. PATIENT SAMPLE A total of 107 patients who had undergone CDR by three surgeons at a single academic institution. OUTCOME MEASURES PROMs (NDI, neck/arm VAS, SF-12 PCS/MCS) were collected prospectively as standard of care preoperatively and at each follow-up (2wk, 6wk, 12wk, and 6mo). METHODS Based on predominant symptom, patients were divided into three groups: NECK (VAS Neck>VAS Arm,n=41), ARM (VAS Arm>VAS Neck,n=28), and NA (VAS Neck=VAS Arm,n=38). Differences in postoperative PROMs and change in PROMs from the preoperative time-point were compared using t-tests. RESULTS Compared to the ARM cohort (4.61±2.82), NECK (6.73±2.48; p=0.005) and NA (6.69±2.85;p=0.007) patients had significantly worse preoperative neck VAS scores, which is not unexpected as groups were created based on preoperative VAS. Although all three groups demonstrated significant improvement in neck VAS by 2wks, which was maintained until 6mo, NECK patients had significantly worse neck VAS than ARM patients at 2 weeks (p=0.020), 12 weeks (p=0.002), and 6 months (p=0.003), with no differences in the amount of improvement among the three groups at any time point. Compared to the NECK cohort (3.28±2.85), ARM (7.45±2.02; p CONCLUSIONS All three cohorts demonstrated significant improvement in NDI and neck VAS with no differences in the degree of improvement. All groups demonstrated improvement in arm VAS, with greater and earlier improvement seen in ARM and NA compared to NECK. All groups demonstrated improvements in PCS and MCS scores, with greater and earlier PCS improvement seen in ARM and earlier MCS improvement seen in NA. Overall, all groups showed improvement following CDR; however, the improvement in ARM and NA is greater and seen earlier compared to NECK. FDA DEVICE/DRUG STATUS This abstract does not discuss or include any applicable devices or drugs.

Efficacy of Combination Therapies on Neck Pain and Muscle Tenderness in Male Patients with Upper Trapezius Active Myofascial Trigger Points.

Myofascial pain syndrome, thought to be the main cause of neck pain and shoulder muscle tenderness in the working population, is characterized by myofascial trigger points (MTrPs). This study aimed to examine the immediate and short-term effect of the combination of two therapeutic techniques for improving neck pain and muscle tenderness in male patients with upper trapezius active MTrPs. This study was a pretest-posttest single-blinded randomized controlled trial. Sixty male subjects with mechanical neck pain due to upper trapezius active MTrPs were recruited and randomly allocated into group A, which received muscle energy technique (MET) and ischemic compression technique (ICT) along with conventional intervention; group B, which received all the interventions of group A except ICT; and group C, which received conventional treatment only. Baseline (Pr), immediate postintervention (Po), and 2-week follow-up (Fo) measurements were made for all variables. Pain intensity and pressure pain threshold (PPT) were assessed by a visual analog scale (VAS) and pressure threshold meter, respectively. All the three groups received their defined intervention plans only. Repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to perform intra- and intergroup analyses. Cohen's d test was used to assess the effect size of the applied interventions within the groups. The intergroup analysis revealed significant differences among groups A, B, and C in VAS and PPT at Po (VAS-Po: F = 13.88, p=0.0001; PPT-Po: F = 17.17, p=0.0001) and even after 2 weeks of follow-up (VAS-Fo: F = 222.35, p=0.0001; PPT-Fo: F = 147.70, p=0.0001). Cohen's d revealed a significant treatment effect size within all groups except group C (only significant for VAS-Po–VAS-Pr: mean difference = 1.33, p < 0.05, d = 1.09); however, it showed a maximum effect size in group A for its variables (VAS-Fo–VAS-Pr: mean difference = 5.27, p=0.01, d = 4.04; PPT-Fo–PPT-Pr: mean difference = 2.14, p < 0.01, d = 3.89). Combination therapies (MET plus ICT) showed immediate and short-term (2-week follow-up) improvements in neck pain and muscle tenderness in male patients with upper trapezius active MTrPs.

Tasuki for neck pain: An individually-randomized, open-label, waiting-list-controlled trial.

ObjectivesNeck pain ranks 4th highest in terms of disability as measured by years lived with disabilities. This study was conducted to determine whether Tasuki‐style posture supporter improves neck pain compared to waiting‐list.MethodsThis trial was an individually‐randomized, open‐label, waiting‐list‐controlled study. Adults (20 years or older) with non‐specific chronic neck pain who reported 10 points or more on modified Neck Disability Index (mNDI: range, 0‐50; higher points indicate worse condition) were enrolled. Participants were randomly assigned 1:1 to the intervention group or waiting‐list. Prespecified primary outcome was the change in mNDI at 1 week. The principle of intention‐to‐treat analyses (as randomized) was applied. This trial was prospectively registered with UMIN (UMIN000034825).ResultsIn total, 50 participants (mean age, 40.9 [standard deviation (SD) = 9.6]; 32 participants [64%] were female, mean mNDI, 14.3 [SD = 2.9]) were enrolled. Of these participants, 26 (52%) were randomly assigned to the intervention group and 24 (48%) to the waiting‐list. Attrition rate was low in both groups (1/50). The mean mNDI change score at 1 week was more favorable for Tasuki than waiting‐list (between‐group difference, −3.5 points (95% confidence interval (CI), −5.3 to −1.8); P = .0002). More participants (58%) had moderate benefit (at least 30% improvement) with Tasuki than waiting‐list (13%) (relative risk 4.6 (95% CI 1.5 to 14); risk difference 0.45 (0.22 to 0.68)).ConclusionThis trial suggests that wearing Tasuki might moderately improve neck pain. With its low‐cost, low‐risk, and easy‐to‐use nature, Tasuki could be an option for those who suffer from neck pain.

COMPARING THE EFFICACY OF UPPER TRAPEZIUS KINESIOTAPING AND STRETCHING EXERCISES IN PATIENTS WITH MECHANICAL NECK ACHE

BACKGROUND AND AIM Globally, around one third of population is suffering from persistent neck pain and it is considered as 4th important source of disability in the population. Several treatment protocols are available now a day to facilitate patient recovery. Therefore, the aim of this study is to identify the effects of kinesiotaping in improving neck pain, upper trapezius muscle strength and functional disability. STUDY DESIGN Randomized controlled trial SAMPLE SIZE 68 participants were recruited for the study. METHODOLOGY All participants of age 18-40 years were assessed using assessment Performa. Pain intensity, upper trapezius muscle strength and Neck disability index were measured at baseline and after treatment sessions. Group A comprised of 34 participant, received Kinesiotaping and conventional physical therapy treatment whereas, equal number of participants were recruited in Group B that received upper trapezius stretching and conventional physical therapy. RESULT The study revealed that both interventions (Kinesiotaping and stretching) were effective i.e., &lt;0.05 in improving pain intensity, muscle strength and functional disability in patients with mechanical neck ache but significant improvement were recorded in group treated with kinesiotaping. CONCLUSION The study concluded that both interventions are effective in improving pain intensity, muscle strength and neck disability index but kinesiotaping is more beneficial than stretching among patient with mechanical neck ache.

Investigation of the effects of flat cushioning insole on gait parameters in individuals with chronic neck pain.

Individuals with chronic neck pain (CNP) walk with a stiffer spine known to cause an increase in dynamic loading on the spine. They also exhibit altered spatiotemporal gait variables, however, it is still unclear whether flat cushioning insole, which reduces dynamic loading on the musculoskeletal system by absorbing the ground reaction force, affects gait parameters in individuals with CNP. The aim of this work was to investigate the effects of flat cushioning insole on neck pain during walking and gait parameters in individuals with CNP. Twenty-one individuals with CNP and 21 asymptomatic controls were included. Assessments of gait parameters and pain were conducted in two sessions, standard shoe only and standard shoe with flat cushioning. In both sessions, all participants performed the 10-meter walk test in two walking conditions: preferred walking, walking at maximum speed. The force sensitive insoles and the video analysis method were used to assess plantar pressure variables and spatiotemporal gait variables, respectively. Pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale. Our results indicated that flat cushioning reduced the maximum force and force-time integral in both groups (p < 0.05). Flat cushioning increased walking speed and step length in both walking conditions and reduced neck pain during walking at maximum speed in individuals with CNP (p < 0.05). In asymptomatic individuals, no difference was found in spatiotemporal gait variables between two sessions (p > 0.05). These results have suggested that the use of flat cushioning insole may improve neck pain during walking and spatiotemporal gait variables in individuals with CNP.

Short-term effects of the suboccipital muscle inhibition technique and cranio-cervical flexion exercise on hamstring flexibility, cranio-vertebral angle, and range of motion of the cervical spine in subjects with neck pain: A randomized controlled trial.

Cervical spinal instability often leads to neck pain and forward head posture (FHP). To improve neck pain and FHP, both the suboccipital muscle inhibition (SMI) technique and cranio-cervical flexion exercise (CCFE) have been used. However, little is known regarding the validity of hamstring flexibility in neck pain subjects after CCFE as a treatment index, and comparison between the SMI technique and CCFE for neck pain treatment. This study aimed to determine the short-term effects of SMI technique and CCFE, which represent passive and active exercise programs, respectively, and whether these improve the straight leg raise (SLR) test results, popliteal angle (PA), cranio-vertebral angle (CVA), and cervical range of motion (CROM) and are equally effective in immediate enhancement of such measures in neck pain subjects. Twenty subjects with neck pain were randomly allocated to the SMI and CCFE groups (n= 10 each). The outcomes were evaluated via clinical evaluation and SLR, PA, CVA, and CROM measurement before and after intervention. SLR test results, PA, CVA (sitting and standing), and CROM (flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and right and left rotations) after both interventions were significantly higher than those before the interventions (P< 0.05). The SLR test results (left), PA, and CVA (standing) after the SMI technique improved to levels similar to those observed after CCFE. Both the SMI technique and CCFE improve SLR test results, PA, CVA, and CROM and are equally effective in immediate enhancement of the hamstring flexibility, CVA, and CROM in subjects with neck pain.