Comparing Manual Ischemic Compression Techniques for Neck Pain Relief
Effects of Manual Ischemic Compression With and Without Strain Counter Strain Technique on Sternocleidomastoid Tightness With Forward Head Posture
This study is testing whether adding a specific technique to a neck pain treatment can help people with neck pain from poor posture feel better and move their necks more easily.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 42 (estimated) |
| Ages | 25 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Riphah International University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Lahore, Punjab) |
| Trial ID | NCT06108882 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effects of Manual Ischemic Compression (IC) with and without Strain Counterstrain (SCS) techniques on individuals experiencing neck pain associated with Forward Head Posture (FHP) and tightness in the Sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle. Participants will undergo treatment over four weeks, with assessments of pain intensity, neck disability, and cervical range of motion using standardized scales. The study seeks to determine if the addition of SCS provides any additional benefits compared to IC alone. The outcomes will be measured at baseline, after two weeks, and at the end of the four-week intervention period.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals with neck pain rated above 3 on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, a craniovertebral angle less than 51, and shortened SCM muscles.
Not a fit: Patients with neck pain due to whiplash, neurological disorders, or a history of cervical spine surgery may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide effective non-invasive treatment options for patients suffering from neck pain and related disabilities.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that similar manual therapies can improve neck pain and disability, but this specific comparison of techniques is less commonly explored.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Neck pain (Numeric Pain Rating Scale \>3) * Craniovertebral angle (CVA) less than 51 * Shortened SCM muscle Exclusion Criteria: * Neck pain with whiplash or headache, neurological disorder * History of previous head, neck, cervical spine or shoulder surgery * Infection or inflammatory arthritis in the cervical spine * History of cervical radiculopathy * Diagnosed fibromyalgia and myopathy * History of cancer
Where this trial is running
Lahore, Punjab
- Amina Physiotherapy and Rehab Center, Nusrat Rashid Medical Complex — Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Saba Rafique, Masters — Riphah International University
- Study coordinator: Imran Amjad, Phd
- Email: imran.amjad@riphah.edu.pk
- Phone: 03324390125
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.