Effects of Tele-rehabilitation Versus Supervised Rehabilitation Among Computer Users With Non-specific Neck Pain

Effects of Tele-rehabilitation Versus Supervised Rehabilitation on Neck Pain, Disability and Exercise Adherence Among Computer Users With Non-specific Neck Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The current study is a single-blinded, two-arm parallel-group randomized controlled trial involving 62 participants with non-specific neck pain among computer users. The trial aims to compare the effects of tele-rehabilitation and supervised rehabilitation on neck pain, disability, and exercise adherence. Both groups will receive the same structured exercise program along with postural correction instructions. The tele-rehabilitation group will perform exercises remotely with digital guidance, reminders, and follow-ups, while the supervised group will receive in-clinic physiotherapy sessions under professional supervision. Interventions will be carried out three times per week for a duration of six weeks, with each session lasting approximately 40 minutes. Outcome measures will include neck pain (VAS), neck disability (NDI), and exercise adherence (ATEMPT tool).Assessments will be conducted at baseline and at the end of treatment at 8th week.The study will be conducted at the Physical Therapy Department of Sehat Medical Complex Lake City, and the University of Lahore Teaching Hospital. The hypothesis is that tele-rehabilitation will be more effective than supervised rehabilitation in reducing neck pain and disability, and may result in better exercise adherence due to its convenience and accessibility.

Non-specific neck pain (NSNP) is a significant medical and socioeconomic issue, particularly among computer users who maintain prolonged static postures. For these professionals, time poverty due to hectic schedules serves as a primary barrier to recovery and exercise adherence. While conventional supervised rehabilitation is effective, it often requires frequent in-person visits that can limit accessibility. This study will evaluate the effectiveness of a tele-rehabilitation delivery model compared to traditional supervised care in improving neck pain, disability, and exercise adherence. The research uses a single-blinded, two-arm, parallel-group randomized clinical trial design.

Tele-rehabilitation Group (TG): Participants receive a digital postural instruction chart and a structured exercise program. Adherence is reinforced through daily WhatsApp notifications and monitored via digital confirmations.

Supervised Rehabilitation Group (SG): Participants receive the same exercise protocol and postural instructions but under the direct supervision of a qualified physiotherapist at a clinic. Both interventions are conducted three times a week for 6 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30 minutes. The study will target 62 computer users aged 18-35 who work more than 35 hours per week and have experienced neck pain for at least 12 weeks.

Assessments will be conducted at baseline and every two weeks using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain, the Neck Disability Index (NDI), and the Adherence To Exercise for Musculoskeletal Pain Tool (ATEMPT). The study aims to validate a clinic-to-desk model that eliminates geographical and time constraints, potentially reducing work absenteeism and improving the long-term health of the workforce.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 18-35 years.
• Neck pain that worsens with movement in at-least one direction
• Computer users with neck pain for at-least 12 weeks
• Neck pain with Visual Analog score of 3 to 8 out of 10
• Participants with forward head posture (FHP)
• Working >35h per week at a desk or computer in a sedentary manner

Exclusion Criteria:

• Individuals with any neurological or vascular disease
• A history of shoulder or spine injuries or surgeries
• Participants with history of regular participation or training programs
• Participants with body mass index over 30
• Participants having undergone physical therapy or other medical treatments for neck pain in the previous 6 months