Comparing isometric and isotonic neck exercises for pain reduction and body awareness

Exercise-induced Hypoalgesia and Proprioceptive Changes, Comparing Isometric to Isotonic Neck Exercises

NA · University of South Dakota · NCT06465394

This study is testing whether isometric or isotonic neck exercises can help people feel less pain and improve their body awareness.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 64 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of South Dakota (other)
Locations1 site (Vermillion, South Dakota)
Trial IDNCT06465394 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of two types of neck exercises—isometric and isotonic—on exercise-induced hypoalgesia (EIH) and proprioception. Participants will be divided into two groups, with odd-numbered individuals performing isometric exercises first and even-numbered individuals starting with isotonic exercises, each followed by a series of tests measuring pain pressure threshold and proprioception. The goal is to determine which exercise type is more effective in reducing pain and improving body awareness. This research aims to enhance exercise prescriptions in physical therapy by providing evidence-based insights into the benefits of these exercises.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy individuals aged 18-64 with no history of neck pain.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic pain or current acute neck pain will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective exercise prescriptions that reduce pain and improve body awareness for patients undergoing physical therapy.

How similar studies have performed: While exercise-induced hypoalgesia has been studied, this specific comparison of isometric versus isotonic neck exercises is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18-64 years old,
* all genders,
* healthy individuals with no neck pain

Exclusion Criteria:

* Medical restrictions to physical activity
* History of chronic pain (pain \> 3 months) or current acute neck pain
* Unable to refrain from alcohol, pain medications, and vigorous exercise 24 hours prior to testing

Where this trial is running

Vermillion, South Dakota

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Exercise

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.