Effectiveness of LASER Therapy and PNF Technique in Neck Pain

Low-Intensity Laser Therapy Versus Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation for Pain and Disability in Chronic Non-Specific Neck Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This study aimed to investigate and compare the effects of low-intensity laser therapy, a photobiomodulation treatment, and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation on pain and disability in individuals with non-specific neck pain. This randomized controlled trial used the Numerical Pain Scale (primary outcome) and the Bournemouth Neck Pain Questionnaire to assess pain, a manual algometer to assess pain threshold, and the Neck Disability Index to assess disability. Three groups were included in this randomized controlled trial: Group 1: Photobiomodulation therapy (low-intensity laser therapy) + conventional physiotherapy; Group 2: Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation with stretching and strengthening + conventional physiotherapy; Group 3: Conventional physiotherapy only. We hypothesized that low-intensity laser therapy and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation would have distinct effects on pain and disability in chronic non-specific neck pain.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Volunteering to participate in the study
• A neck pain score of at least 3 on the Numerical Pain Scale in the assessment conducted prior to inclusion in the study
• A Neck Disability Index score of 5 or higher
• No comorbid conditions affecting the orthopaedic, neurological or cardiopulmonary systems
• Participants who have not been enrolled in another clinical trial within the last month

Exclusion Criteria:

• Individuals who have undergone upper limb surgery (e.g. shoulder blade, shoulder, elbow, hand, wrist, etc.) within the last year
• Individuals with a pacemaker or subcutaneous implant
• Pregnant women or women who have recently given birth
• Use of antidepressants, anti-inflammatory drugs or anxiolytics within the last 6 months