Comparing Two Muscle Relaxation Techniques for Neck Pain

Comparative Effectiveness of Positional Release Technique and Post Isometric Relaxation on Pain, ROM and Functional Disability in Patient With Levator Scapulae Tightness

Levator scapulae muscle tightness is a common cause of neck pain due to poor posture. This study compares two manual therapy techniques: Positional Release Technique (PRT) and Post Isometric Relaxation (PIR). The goal is to determine which technique is more effective at reducing pain, improving neck range of motion, and decreasing functional disability in patients with this condition. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either PRT or PIR for 4 weeks

This is a double-blind, randomized clinical trial. A sample of 44 participants aged 25-40 with levator scapulae tightness will be recruited from hospitals in Faisalabad. Participants will be randomly assigned to two groups (n=22 each). Group A will receive the Positional Release Technique (PRT) involving a 90-second hold of the scapula in a specific position. Group B will receive Post Isometric Relaxation (PIR) involving a 10-second contraction followed by a 10-second stretch. Both groups will receive a 10-minute hot pack before their respective techniques. Interventions will occur 3 times per week for 4 weeks (12 sessions total). Outcome measures include the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), cervical goniometry, and the Neck Disability Index (NDI), measured at baseline and after 4 weeks

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age between 25 to 40 years.
• Both male and female.
• Presence of a trigger point in levator scapulae (palpable tender spot with jump sign).
• Score greater than 20% on the Neck Disability Index.
• Non-specific neck pain.
• Confirmation of trigger point via leavtor scapule length test.
• trevors and simons criteria.
• Jump sign

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of trauma or fracture to the scapula or cervical spine.
• Pregnancy.
• Previous cervical spine surgery.
• Diagnosis of cancer, cardiac condition, or infectious disease.
• Specific neck pathology (e.g., disc prolapse, nerve root compression, whiplash).