Comparison of the Immediate Effects of Manual Therapy Techniques in Non-Specific Neck Pain

Comparison of the Immediate Effects of Manual Therapy Techniques on Joint Range of Motion, Grip Strength, Pressure Pain Threshold, and Functionality in Non-Specific Neck Pain

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of manual therapy techniques on joint range of motion, pain tolerance, grip strength, and functionality in individuals with non-specific neck pain. The study is experimental in design. Individuals aged between 18 and 55 who were diagnosed with non-specific neck pain and met the inclusion criteria participated in the study.

Participants who agreed to take part and signed the informed consent form were asked to complete the "Patient Assessment Form" during the initial interview.

In addition, the following assessment tools were used: the Cervical Range of Motion (CROM) device to evaluate joint range of motion, a hand dynamometer to assess grip strength, an algometer to measure pain tolerance, and the "Neck Disability Index" to evaluate functionality.

Participants were then randomly assigned to one of three groups:

Group 1: Atlanto-occipital manipulation

Group 2: Cervical mobilization

Group 3: Trigger point therapy

Participants in the first group received atlanto-occipital manipulation, those in the second group underwent Grade II-III mobilization techniques, and those in the third group received trigger point therapy, which consisted of ischemic compression followed by myofascial stretching on the upper trapezius muscle.

Immediately after the treatments, joint range of motion, pain tolerance, and functionality were reassessed. The manual therapy interventions for all three groups were performed by different specialized physiotherapists trained in these techniques. The evaluations, however, were conducted by another physiotherapist who was blinded to the treatments (double-blind study).

The data were statistically analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences program, and a p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Be between the ages of 18 and 55
• Have been diagnosed with non-specific neck pain by a specialized physician
• Have been experiencing neck pain for less than 3 months
• Have a neck pain level of at least 3 on the Visual Analog Scale
• Have bilateral active trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle
• Have restricted active cervical range of motion

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of neurological deficit or radicular pain
• History of pathology or surgery in the cranio-cervical region
• Positive response in the extension-rotation test
• Use of anticoagulants or corticosteroids
• Presence of one or more red flags defined for non-specific neck pain