The Cervical "STRETCH" Study

The Cervical "STRETCH" (Stretching Trials for Range, Ease, and Teaching Curriculum Health) Study

Neck pain and reduced cervical range of motion (ROM) are common musculoskeletal concerns that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life and daily routine. This is especially true for medical students who spend a disproportionate amount of time on their computers or mobile devices, as is required by their long study hours. A simple stretching routine is often recommended by physicians and physical therapists alike, but there is little research examining short-term changes in cervical range of motion (ROM) and pain when a brief, structured daily stretching program is used.

The goal of this single-group study is to test feasibility and determine how well a daily cervical stretching regimen affects cervical ROM and self-reported pain in osteopathic medical students with cervical ROM restrictions. Researchers will measure changes in cervical ROM using a goniometer and changes in pain levels via the Visual Analog Scale (VAS).

Participants will be asked to complete a 7-day period of no stretching, during which natural measurements will be taken, followed by 7 days of completing the 5-minute stretching routine, after which more measurements will be taken. Participants will also be asked to complete a post-study survey and a 1-month follow-up survey to provide feedback on the study and the stretching routine.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Must be currently enrolled OMSI or OMSII student at the Western University of Health Sciences (WUHS), College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific (COMP).
• Demonstrates a range of motion restriction or presents with cervical pain or both. (Normal range of motion in the cervical spine is Flexion and Extension of 60 degrees, Sidebending of 45 degrees, and Rotation of 8090 degrees.)
• Reports mild to moderate cervical pain (VAS score between 2 and 5 or mild to moderate).
• Agrees to complete daily cervical stretching exercises as instructed and will adhere to all study protocols.
• Must be 18 years or older.

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of severe cervical spine injuries (e.g., fractures, herniated discs requiring surgical intervention, cervical radiculopathy, or myelopathy).
• Diagnosed inflammatory or degenerative conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis).
• Contraindications to stretching exercises, such as recent surgery or other physical therapy restrictions.
• Conditions that affect neuromuscular function or ROM measurements, such as multiple sclerosis or muscular dystrophy.
• VAS score > 7 or pain severe enough to inhibit participation in daily stretching exercises.
• Below the age of 18