Mobilization Techniques for Nonspecific Neck Pain: Effects on Cervical Endurance and Function

Summary

This clinical study investigates the comparative effects of two manual therapy mobilization techniques, Positional Release Technique (PRT) and Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (İASTM), on cervical muscle endurance and functional performance in individuals with nonspecific neck pain. Nonspecific neck pain is a common musculoskeletal condition among office workers and students, often associated with poor posture, prolonged sitting, and repetitive strain. It leads to reduced muscle endurance, impaired functional capacity, and decreased quality of life. Early and effective management strategies are essential to prevent chronicity and disability.

A total of 51 participants will be recruited and randomly assigned into three groups: Group 1 will receive PRT combined with a standardized home exercise program, Group 2 will receive İASTM combined with the same home exercise program, and Group 3 will serve as the control group receiving only conventional home exercise. The interventions will be delivered over a period of 4 weeks, with three sessions per week, under the supervision of trained physiotherapists. The home exercise program includes stretching, strengthening, and posture correction exercises designed to support cervical spine health.

The primary outcomes of the study are cervical muscle endurance and functional performance, measured using validated clinical tests. Secondary outcomes include pain intensity assessed by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), functional disability measured by the Neck Disability Index (NDI), health-related quality of life assessed by the SF-12 questionnaire, and work-related performance indicators. Assessments will be conducted at baseline and after 4 weeks of intervention. Randomization and blinding procedures will be applied to minimize bias, and standardized protocols will ensure consistency across groups.

The main objective of this study is to determine whether the early application of PRT or İASTM, in combination with home exercise, provides superior improvements in cervical muscle endurance, pain reduction, and functional outcomes compared to exercise alone. By comparing these two mobilization techniques, the study aims to contribute evidence-based knowledge to physiotherapy practice and guide clinicians in selecting effective manual therapy approaches for nonspecific neck pain. The findings are expected to support clinical decision-making, improve patient care, and enhance rehabilitation strategies for individuals suffering from neck pain in occupational and daily life contexts.

Conditions

• Neck Pain Musculoskeletal
• Nonspecific Neck Pain

Interventions

PROCEDURE

Positional Release Technique (PRT)

The Positional Release Technique involves passive positioning of the cervical spine to relieve muscle tension at trigger points. Each position is held for 90 seconds and repeated three times per session. Participants receive 12 sessions over 4 weeks (3 sessions per week, 45-60 minutes each).

PROCEDURE

Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (İASTM)

Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization uses stainless steel tools applied at 30-60° angles along muscle fibers to reduce soft tissue restrictions. Each area is treated for 60-90 seconds, with total manual contact lasting 8-12 minutes per session. Participants receive 12 sessions over 4 weeks (3 sessions per week, 45-60 minutes each).

BEHAVIORAL

Control Group

Participants perform only home exercise programs three times per week for four weeks (45-60 minutes each session). Exercises include static stretching of the upper trapezius, levator scapula, and scalene muscles (30 seconds × 3 sets), chin tuck endurance exercise (10 seconds × 10 repetitions), and scapular stabilization strengthening (3 sets × 10-15 repetitions). Exercises are guided by video instructions and mobile reminders.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Istanbul University - Cerrahpasa

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• GUNEY SHIRVANOVA, BSc PT · Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

SINGLE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Max Age

40 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2026-03-16

Primary Completion

2027-01-16

Completion

2027-01-16

Countries

• Turkey (Türkiye)

Study Locations