A Comparison of the Effects of Static Stretching and Mulligan Mobilization in Mechanical Neck Pain
Static Stretching vs. Mulligan Mobilization in Neck Pain
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61919/jhrr.v4i2.1229Keywords:
Mechanical neck pain, static stretching, Mulligan mobilization, manual therapy, musculoskeletal disorders, neck disability, SNAGs, physical therapy techniques.Abstract
Background: Mechanical neck pain (MNP) is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition associated with pain, stiffness, and functional disability. Poor posture, muscle strain, and repetitive movements are common contributing factors.
Objective: To compare the efficacy of static stretching and Mulligan mobilization techniques in reducing pain and disability associated with MNP.
Methods: This quasi-experimental study recruited 40 patients with MNP, aged 18–35, randomized into two equal groups. Group A received static stretching targeting the upper trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, and levator scapulae, three times weekly for eight weeks. Group B underwent Mulligan mobilization, including sustained natural apophyseal glides (SNAGs), repeated six times per session. Both groups received 20 minutes of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and moist heat as baseline treatment. Pain and disability were assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Neck Disability Index (NDI) before and after treatment. Data analysis was performed using SPSS v25 with paired and independent t-tests.
Results: Both groups showed significant improvements in NPRS and NDI scores (p < 0.001). Group A's NPRS decreased from 5.55 ± 1.05 to 1.70 ± 0.73, while Group B's decreased from 5.65 ± 1.46 to 1.05 ± 0.83. NDI scores reduced from 26.35 ± 3.73 to 8.45 ± 2.85 in Group A and from 27.60 ± 3.31 to 6.40 ± 2.43 in Group B. Mulligan mobilization showed greater improvements (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Both interventions were effective, but Mulligan mobilization demonstrated superior results, suggesting it as a preferred treatment for MNP.
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Copyright (c) 2024 Ali Husnain, Qadeer Muneer, Saira Ashfaq, Muhammad Abbas, Hafsa Fayyaz, Aftab Ansar Lodhi
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