RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07329478

Effects of Muscle Specific as Compared to Movement Specific Muscle Energy Technique on Isometric Muscle Strength and Muscular Endurance in Individuals With Mechanical Neck Pain

Sponsor

Foundation University Islamabad

Enrollment

30 participants

Start Date

Jan 15, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Neck Pain

Summary

Neck pain, prevalent in young adults due to poor posture, sedentary habits, and muscle imbalance. This study aims to compare the effects of muscle-specific versus movement-specific MET on pain, isometric muscle strength, and endurance of neck flexors and extensors. Pre- and post-intervention assessments using VAS, Modified Sphygmomanometer Dynamometer, and cranio-cervical flexion/extension tests will evaluate treatment outcomes.

Eligibility

Min Age: 19 YearsMax Age: 44 Years

Inclusion Criteria4

Age 19-44 years.
Both Genders (Male and Female).
Limitation on cervical motion
Pain ranging from 40-80 mm on visual analogue scale (VAS)

Exclusion Criteria3

Participants with a positive history of fracture, surgery or trauma in the neck region, thoracic outlet syndrome, infection, any malignancy.
Vascular syndromes such as vertebrobasilar insufficiency.
Inflammatory, or rheumatic disorders, cervical radiculopathy, myelopathy, spondylosis, or syringomyelia.

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Interventions

PROCEDUREMovement specific muscle energy technique

In the movement-specific group, participants received Post-Isometric Relaxation MET targeting cervical spine movements (flexion, extension, rotation, lateral flexion). For example, during right rotation: Active Contraction: The participant rotated left (opposite direction) with 30-50% effort against the therapist's resistance for 7-10 seconds. Relaxation: The participant relaxed completely. Stretching: The therapist gently moved the head towards the restricted range (right rotation) and held the stretch for 10-60 seconds. This technique enhances mobility and reduces muscular tension by combining contraction, relaxation, and stretching.

PROCEDUREMuscle specific muscle energy technique

In the muscle specific MET group, the participants were given post-isometric relaxation MET targeted at muscles of the neck region that are prone to get short, including anterior, middle and posterior Scalene, Sternocleidomastoid, Levator Scapulae and upper fibers of Trapezius muscle. Active Contraction: The participant rotated left (opposite direction) with 30-50% effort against the therapist's resistance for 7-10 seconds. Relaxation: The participant relaxed completely. Stretching: The therapist gently moved the head towards the restricted range (right rotation) and held the stretch for 10-60 seconds. This technique enhances mobility and reduces muscular tension by combining. Tens and Hot pack therapy for both groups preceding every session for 10 mins.