Participants in Group A will receive a combined program of corrective exercises and the Feldenkrais method. The program includes posture-focused Feldenkrais movements and stretching/strengthening exercises for postural muscles (e.g., pectorals, cervical extensors, deep neck flexors, and scapular retractors). The intervention will be delivered twice weekly over 8 weeks, totaling 16supervised 45-minute sessions by a physiotherapist.

Participants in Group B will receive a program combining corrective and breathing exercises. Corrective exercises will be performed at the same sets and repetitions as Group A, adjusted to individual tolerance. Breathing exercises include diaphragmatic breathing and thoracic expansion, performed in 2-3 sets of 7 repetitions. The intervention will be delivered twice weekly over 8 weeks, totaling 16supervised 45-minute sessions by a physiotherapist.

This is a behavioral, non-drug and non-device-based intervention combining somatic awareness through Feldenkrais principles with neuromuscular re-education. Movements emphasize minimal effort, reduced muscle tension, and improved self-perception of posture. The approach supports individualized progression and complements conventional physiotherapy without the use of pharmacological agents or medical equipment.

Cervical joint position sense was assessed using a laser pointer-based method to evaluate proprioceptive accuracy. A laser device was securely mounted on the participant's head, and a neutral head position was established as a reference. Participants were instructed to move their heads in specific directions (flexion, extension, lateral flexion, or rotation) and, with eyes closed, return to the starting position. The laser beam projected onto a target screen allowed measurement of repositioning error-the distance between the original and returned laser point. Each direction was tested once, followed by three recorded trials, with the average used for analysis.

Cervical muscle strength was assessed isometrically using the Lafayette Manual Muscle Tester. Participants were seated upright in a backless, armless chair with feet flat on the floor. Initial calibration involved maximal voluntary isometric contraction with hands pressed together in front of the body. Measurements were then taken with the neck in a neutral position, applying resistance to the forehead (flexion), occiput (extension), lateral head (lateral flexion), and chin (rotation). Three trials were recorded per direction, with averages used for analysis. A 3-minute rest was provided between attempts. Participants could stop at any time if discomfort occurred.

Cervical range of motion (ROM) was measured using the Baseline Digital Absolute+Axis Goniometer, a reliable and clinically validated tool for assessing cervical spine movements. Active cervical motions-including flexion, extension, right/left lateral flexion, and right/left rotation-were measured following standardized procedures defined by Norkin et al. Participants performed each movement actively while seated in an upright position. The goniometer provided objective angular measurements. This tool has demonstrated good to excellent intrarater reliability (ICC: 0.70-0.93) in previous research, confirming its suitability for both clinical and research purposes.

The Neck Disability Index (NDI) is a self-reported questionnaire designed to evaluate how neck pain affects daily activities. It includes 10 items grouped under pain-related aspects (e.g., pain intensity, headaches, sleep, concentration), selective daily activities (e.g., driving, lifting, work, recreation), and essential daily activities (e.g., personal care, reading). Each item is scored from 0 to 5, and total scores are converted to a percentage out of 100. Higher scores indicate greater disability. The Turkish version of the NDI has demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.979) and strong construct validity in Turkish-speaking populations.