Effects of Ischemic Compression Combined with Home Exercises on Pain and Quality of Life in Adults with Chronic Non-Specific Neck Pain

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how ischemic compression combined with home exercises affects pain, neck movement, disability, and quality of life in adults with chronic non-specific neck pain lasting at least 3 months. The study involves 52 participants aged 18 to 65 years, divided into two groups to compare combined therapy against home exercises alone. The goal is to provide clinical evidence on whether adding ischemic compression offers benefits over exercising at home by itself. Participants are randomly assigned to either a treatment group receiving ischemic compression twice a week for 4 weeks plus a home exercise program, or a control group performing only the home exercise program twice daily. Ischemic compression involves the therapist applying controlled thumb pressure on trigger points in neck muscles for about 90 seconds at the participants pain tolerance level. The home exercises include stretching and strengthening of the cervical region. Throughout the study, participants undergo evaluations of pain intensity, neck disability, quality of life, and neck range of motion at the start and after 4 weeks of treatment. Measurements include the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, Neck Disability Index, SF-12 Health Survey, and cervical movement using a goniometer. Data analysis will help determine the effects of the combined treatment compared to home exercises alone.

Ischemic Compression and Home Exercise in Non-Specific Neck Pain