Training Deep Neck Muscles and Sensorimotor Skills to Treat Chronic Mechanical Neck Pain in Adults Aged 20 to 40

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of deep cervical flexor muscle training combined with sensorimotor proprioception training for adults aged 20 to 40 years suffering from chronic mechanical neck pain lasting longer than three months. This randomized controlled trial involves 60 participants and aims to address gaps in physiotherapy management for this condition within the regional context. The study is conducted at the outpatient clinic of the faculty of physical therapy at Cairo University. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. The experimental group receives conventional physical therapy plus deep cervical flexor muscle training using a pressure biofeedback unit and proprioception training including head relocation, oculomotor, and eye-head coordination exercises. The control group receives only conventional physical therapy, including stretching, isometric strengthening exercises, TENS, and hot back treatments. Both groups attend supervised sessions three times weekly for four weeks, with each session lasting 45 to 60 minutes. During the study, assessments occur at the start and after four weeks. Evaluations include pain intensity using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, craniovertebral angle measured by a mobile app, cervical range of motion, segmental mobility, neuromotor control via a flexion test, proprioception through head repositioning accuracy, and respiratory function using spirometry. The study monitors changes in these outcomes to provide evidence-based recommendations for managing chronic mechanical neck pain.

Deep Cervical Flexor and Sensorimotor Training for Chronic Neck Pain