A Randomized Trial Comparing Standard Care With and Without Enhanced Contextual Factors for Mechanical Neck Pain in Adults Over 4 Weeks

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether a Contextual Factors-Enriched Standard Care CFsSC approach can better reduce pain and improve function in adults with mechanical neck pain lasting more than 4 weeks. This assessor-blinded, randomized clinical trial will compare the CFsSC approach to Standard Care alone using validated tools like the Northwick Park Neck Pain Questionnaire and Numeric Pain Rating Scale. The study also explores effects on range of motion, global change perception, satisfaction, treatment credibility, and psychosocial factors. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups receiving 4 weeks of treatment twice weekly. Both groups follow clinical guidelines including exercises, manual therapy, education, and a home care guide. The intervention group will have enhanced contextual factors such as positive professional attitudes, empathetic communication, and a supportive healthcare setting. Therapists receive specialized training, and treatment adherence is monitored through self-assessments and audits. Participants will attend scheduled sessions with reminders sent before each visit. Missed sessions may result in dropout and intention-to-treat analysis. Assessments occur at baseline, after 4 weeks of treatment, and at a 12-week follow-up. Outcomes measured include pain intensity, disability, range of motion, global rating of change, satisfaction, and treatment expectations. Data quality is ensured through monitoring and auditing, with the study conducted under ethical guidelines and regulatory standards.

Contextual Factors-Enriched Standard Care on Mechanical Neck Pain