Neck Exercises After Thyroid Surgery

Effect of Postoperative Neck Range-of-Motion and Isometric Strengthening Exercises on Neck Pain and Early-Stage Quality of Life After Thyroidectomy

Postoperative neck pain is common after thyroidectomy and may impair early recovery. This prospective randomized controlled study aimed to evaluate the effects of postoperative neck range-of-motion (ROM) and isometric strengthening exercises on neck pain and early-stage quality of life in patients undergoing thyroidectomy. Between November 2024 and April 2025, 93 patients who underwent thyroidectomy were enrolled. Surgical indications included multinodular goiter, Graves' disease, and fine-needle aspiration biopsy results classified as Bethesda categories III-VI. Patients were randomized into an intervention group (n = 48) and a control group (n = 45). Patients in the intervention group performed cervical ROM and isometric strengthening exercises from postoperative day 1 to day 10, while the control group received standard postoperative care without a structured exercise program. Both groups were evaluated on postoperative days 1 and 10. Pain severity was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and quality of life was assessed using the Neck Pain, Discomfort, and Early-Stage Quality of Life Questionnaire (NPDEPQ).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults aged 18 years or older
• Patients who underwent thyroidectomy for multinodular goiter, Graves' disease, or fine-needle aspiration biopsy results classified as Bethesda categories III, IV, V, or VI
• Ability to understand and comply with the study protocol
• Provision of written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Age younger than 18 years
• History of previous neck surgery
• Cervical disc herniation
• Parathyroidectomy
• Hashimoto's thyroiditis
• Refusal to provide written informed consent