Effectiveness of an Intervention Plan Aimed at the Diaphragm in Chronic Non-specific Neck Pain

Effectiveness of an Intervention Plan Targeting the Diaphragm in Young Adults With Chronic Non-specific Neck Pain: Randomised Clinical Trial

The aim of this study is to analyse the effectiveness of an intervention plan targeting the diaphragm, namely stretching technique, neuromuscular diaphragm and phrenic centre inhibition, in the treatment of chronic non-specific neck pain.

Chronic neck pain is defined as pain and discomfort between the superior nuchal line and the spinous process of the first thoracic vertebra, which may radiate to the scapula, anterior chest wall, skull or upper limbs. It is classified as chronic if the pain persists for more than 12 weeks. Associated symptoms include headache, dizziness and pain or paresthesia in the upper limbs. These symptoms interfere with daily life and have a negative impact on physical and mental health.

The aetiology of this pathology is multifactorial and the triggering factors may vary due to the close relationship that the cervical spine has with other structures, namely the diaphragm muscle.

Our aim is to verify the effectiveness of an osteopathic treatment protocol targeting the diaphragm in chronic non-specific neck pain in young adults. Specifically, to analyse whether the mechanical, fascial and neural pathways established by the defined manual techniques, namely stretching techniques, neuromuscular inhibition of the diaphragm and the phrenic centre, have any effect on active movements (rotations and inclinations) and chronic neck pain.

This study will analyse the effects of diaphragmatic techniques on the following variables: Numerical Pain Scale and Goniometer Pro© (G-pro©).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Present a negative Jackson test;
• Have a body mass index (BMI) of 20-29.9 kg/m2;
• Suffer from chronic non-specific neck pain for 3 months or more.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Have a history of cervical spine surgery, as well as any trauma or fracture of the cervical spine, clavicle, scapula and ribs;
• Have specific neck pain due to degenerative diseases (disc prolapse, scoliosis);
• Having a congenital cervical deformity, such as torticollis;
• Being pregnant;
• Having rheumatic, oncological or respiratory pathologies;
• Have liver or gallbladder pathologies;
• Receiving physiotherapy, osteopathy, acupuncture or massage treatment for neck pain 3 months before and during participation in the study;
• Taking analgesics, anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants 5 days prior to the intervention.