Self-Mobilization With SNAGs Vs. DIE on CMNP in Computer Professionals

Summary

The goal of this clinical trial was to find out whether a self-applied neck mobilization technique (called self-SNAGs) or neck strengthening exercises (dynamic isometric exercises) works better to reduce pain and improve daily function in computer professionals aged 25-45 years who had long-lasting mechanical neck pain.

The main questions it aimed to answer were:

* Does self-SNAG treatment reduce neck pain more than strengthening exercises?
* Does self-SNAG treatment improve neck-related daily activities more than strengthening exercises?

Researchers compared self-SNAG exercises with dynamic isometric neck exercises to see which approach led to greater pain relief and better function over six weeks.

Participants were asked to:

* Perform either self-SNAG neck movements using a towel or neck-strengthening exercises using elastic bands.
* Do the exercises five days per week for six weeks.
* Follow ergonomic advice for proper posture during computer work.
* Complete pain and disability questionnaires before and after the program.

Conditions

• Chronic Mechanical Neck Pain

Interventions

OTHER

Self-applied Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glides

Participants in the Self-SNAG Group performed self-administered cervical SNAG mobilizations using a towel following initial physiotherapist instruction to ensure correct technique. Movements included cervical extension, bilateral rotation, and bilateral lateral flexion. The towel edge was placed beneath the targeted vertebral level to apply a sustained glide while participants actively moved through the available range, with brief end-range overpressure before returning to neutral. Each movement was repeated 6-10 times per session.

OTHER

Dynamic Isometric Exercise

Participants in the DIE Group performed dynamic isometric exercises using elastic resistance bands, including resisted flexion, extension, and lateral flexion. The band was secured around the head and anchored to a stable surface while participants maintained upright posture and controlled cervical alignment. The head was displaced approximately 10 cm against resistance and slowly returned to the starting position. Each session comprised 2-3 sets of 10-15 repetitions per movement, with instruction to prevent compensatory motions.

OTHER

Conventional Adjuncts

All participants of both groups received a standard ergonomic education and postural advice program, which included guidance on neutral spine alignment, workstation optimization, and the incorporation of regular movement breaks during computer work to minimize cervical strain.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• PIPRAMS, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradseh, India

  collaborator UNKNOWN

• King Saud University

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• Ahmad H. Alghadir, PhD · King Saud University

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

DOUBLE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

25 Years

Max Age

45 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2021-03-22

Primary Completion

2021-08-25

Completion

2021-12-16

Countries

• India

Study Locations