Mulligan Technique for Chronic Neck Pain in Adults

"The Effect of the Mulligan Technique on Chronic Neck Pain and Range of Motion in Adults Aged 18 to 65 Years: A Randomized Controlled Trial"

This study aims to evaluate the effect of the Mulligan Technique, a manual therapy method, on reducing chronic neck pain and improving neck movement in adults aged 18 to 65 years. Participants will receive treatment sessions, and their pain levels and range of motion will be assessed. The goal is to determine if this technique can help improve quality of life for people suffering from chronic neck pain.

Seventy-six participants with chronic neck pain, aged between 18 and 65 years, were selected on the basis of selection criteria. The pain intensity was measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), the cervical range of motion (ROM) was measured using the universal goniometer, and the functional disability was measured using the Neck Disability Index (NDI). Patients were randomly assigned to two Groups A and B. Control group (A) (n = 32) received a conventional physical therapy program that included exercises, electrical stimulation, and massage. The experimental group (B) (n=38) received the same conventional program, with the addition of the Mulligan technique. Six participants were excluded from the study. Both groups underwent treatment 3 times per week for 4 weeks, and measurements were taken before and after the treatment period. For data entry and statistical analysis, (SPSS version 20) was used. The independent samples t-test was capture summarize and interpret data and 95 percent of the confidence interval is covered.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age between 18-65 years.
• Chronic mechanical neck pain (≥ 3 months).
• Limited cervical range of motion (ROM).
• Medically diagnosed with non-specific neck pain.
• Able to attend treatment sessions.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Radiating pain to the upper limb.
• Signs of nerve root compression or disc herniation.
• History of cervical spine surgery or major trauma.
• Inflammatory joint diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis).
• Osteoporosis or systemic medical conditions affecting bone/joint health.
• Fibromyalgia or central nervous system disorders.
• Contraindications to manual therapy (e.g., pacemaker, vascular disorders).
• Recent physical therapy or steroid injections (within past 3-12 months).
• Long-term use of corticosteroids or pain medications.
• Pregnancy.