Factors Associated With Pain Threshold in Young Adults With Chronic Neck Pain

The Effect of Pain Intensity, Neck Disability, Anxiety, and Quality of Life on Pain Threshold in Young Adults With Chronic Neck Pain

The aim of this study was to determine which factors affect treatment expectations in individuals with chronic neck pain.

This study aims to investigate the factors influencing treatment expectations in individuals suffering from chronic neck pain. Neck pain is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder that significantly affects individuals' quality of life over long periods. It is recognized globally as the fourth leading cause of disability and imposes substantial economic burdens due to treatment costs, loss of workforce productivity, and healthcare expenditures.

Chronic neck pain often arises from nonspecific mechanical and postural causes, with various risk factors including socio-demographic (age, gender, genetics, obesity, occupation), psychological (stress, anxiety, depression, personality traits), and behavioral (postural disorders, prolonged sedentary work positions, smoking, physical activity habits) contributing to its development.

Pain duration classification categorizes neck pain as acute (up to six weeks), subacute (six weeks to three months), and chronic (over three months). The prevalence of chronic neck pain is increasing due to technological advancements and lifestyle changes, such as prolonged phone and computer use.

Psychological factors play a significant role in chronic neck pain, with high rates of depression and anxiety observed among affected individuals. These psychosocial factors, along with pain severity and disability, adversely impact patients' quality of life and pain threshold levels.

Despite extensive research, there is a lack of studies examining the combined effects of pain severity, neck disability, anxiety, and quality of life on pain threshold among young adults with chronic neck pain. This study seeks to fill this gap by exploring these relationships, aiming to contribute to the literature and support the development of a multidisciplinary approach to neck pain treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• to be examined by specialised physicians and diagnosed with chronic neck pain
• to be physically and mentally fit to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• the presence of instability in the neck joints,
• trauma within the last year,
• severe osteoporosis,
• previous neck surgery,
• physical therapy within the last 6 months,
• neurological findings or radiculopathy were determined.