To assess pressure pain threshold and pinch grip strengths.

To assess pressure pain threshold and pinch grip strengths.

To assess pressure pain threshold and pinch grip strengths.

Pressure pain threshold will be measured using Baseline® dolorimeter (Fabrication Enterprises, White Plains, NY, USA). Pressure pain thresholds of the upper trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, levator scapula, and suboccipital region muscles (semispinalis capitis and splenius capitis) will be evaluated. Two measurements will be taken from all muscles in the same order and with five minutes intervals. The average of the measurements will be recorded in kilograms/centimeter2 (kg/cm2). The procedure will be explained to individuals by showing them by manual palpation before testing begins. Pressure pain threshold measurement with algometer has been reported as a valid and reliable method.

Baseline® pinch meter (Mechanical Pinch Gauges, NexGen Ergonomics, Inc. Montreal, Canada) will be used to assess pinch grip strength. While measuring pinch grip strength, patients will be asked to place the pinch meter between the pulp of the thumb and index finger and squeeze with all their strength. All measurements will be performed in 3 repetitions with one-minute intervals on the right and left hands. The average of the obtained values will be recorded in kilogram force.

Neck disorders will be assessed with the Bournemouth Questionnaire (BQ). BQ consists of 7 questions that examine pain intensity, activities of daily living, social activities, anxiety, emotional aspects of depression, kinesiophobia, and ability to control pain. The items in the questionnaire are specific to patients with neck pain, and each question evaluates a different parameter. A high score indicates a high degree of discomfort. The Turkish version of the BQ has been proven to be valid and reliable.

Arm, shoulder, and hand problems will be evaluated with the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire (DASH). The questionnaire consists of a disability/symptom scale (11 items) and two optional scales: work (four items) and sports/performing arts (four items). In the disability/symptom scale, each item questions the severity of pain, activity-related pain, tingling, weakness and stiffness, difficulty in performing physical activity due to upper extremity problems, and the effect of upper extremity problems on social activities, work, and sleep. Answers are given on a scale of one to five, and each question is scored from 1 to 5. Scores on the three subscales of the DASH disability/symptom scale, the work scale, and the sports/performing arts scale all range from 0 (no disability) to 100 (most severe disability). The Turkish version of DASH has been reported to be valid and reliable.