The Effectiveness of the Polyvagal Theory in Chronic Neck Pain

Investigation of the Effectiveness of the Polyvagal Theory-based Exercise Approach in Chronic Neck Pain

This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of a polyvagal theory-based exercise approach on joint position sense, pain, range of motion, functionality, depression, and quality of life in individuals with chronic neck pain.

H0 = The polyvagal theory-based exercise approach has no significant effect on joint position sense, neck pain, range of motion, functionality, depression, or quality of life.

H1 = The polyvagal theory-based exercise approach has a significant effect on joint position sense, neck pain, range of motion, functionality, depression, and quality of life.

Neck pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal problems that negatively impacts individuals' health and quality of life. When chronic painful conditions occur in musculoskeletal disorders, mood disorders such as depression and anxiety can also occur. A long-term history of neck pain is associated with stress, poor quality of life, and decreased functionality.

Polyvagal theory advocates working with the body, becoming aware of it, and connecting with the senses. Exercises based on polyvagal theory can be specifically designed and customized to stimulate the vagus nerve, promote relaxation, and enhance social interaction by following the principles of polyvagal theory.

While polyvagal theory is often used in psychology, it has only been used in rehabilitation in one study, with the potential to improve quality of life by inhibiting the sympathetic nervous system and activating the parasympathetic nervous system, thereby reducing pain perception and stress.

This study, in which participants were divided into three groups: control, intervention 1, and intervention 2, aimed to examine the effectiveness of a polyvagal theory-based exercise approach on joint position sense, pain, range of motion, functionality, depression, and quality of life in individuals with chronic neck pain.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Individuals diagnosed with chronic neck pain of Grade 1 or 2, lasting at least 3 months
• Individuals whose pain is clinically evaluated and diagnosed
• Individuals with a pain score of 3 or higher on the Visual Analog Scale

Exclusion Criteria:

• Individuals diagnosed with chronic neck pain of Grade 3 or 4
• History of trauma or surgical intervention in the neck region
• Cervical disc herniation, cervical stenosis, or other serious neurological conditions
• Upper extremity radiculopathy
• Acute inflammation or infection
• Severe pathological conditions (e.g., inflammatory diseases, neoplasms, fractures)
• Individuals unable to participate in exercises due to mental or physical impairments
• Pregnancy
• Individuals who have received physiotherapy for chronic neck pain within the last 6 months