Effects of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization vs Post Facilitation Stretch in Chronic Neck Pain
Official title: Effects of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization Versus Post Facilitation Stretch Technique in Chronic Neck Pain
Run by Foundation University Islamabad · NCT07887698 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This trial compares two manual therapy techniques, IASTM and Post Facilitation Stretch, to see which better reduces neck pain and improves movement and function in adults with chronic neck pain.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 38 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Foundation University Islamabad Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Islamabad, Punjab Province) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 12, 2026 |
| Main results expected | December 18, 2026 |
| Study ends | January 18, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | October 21, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07887698 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults 18-50 with non-specific chronic neck pain for at least 12 weeks, NPRS ≥ 3, restricted or painful cervical ROM, and moderate to severe neck disability (NDI 15–>35).
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with a history of cervical surgery, recent cervical trauma, inflammatory or malignant spinal conditions, cervical disc pathology with neurological signs, pregnancy, or skin conditions prohibiting IASTM may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
In this randomized controlled trial, adults aged 18-50 with non-specific chronic neck pain lasting at least 12 weeks are assigned to receive either Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) or Post Facilitation Stretch (PFS), in addition to conventional physiotherapy. Outcomes focus on pain intensity, cervical range of motion, and neck-related disability. Forty participants are planned to participate, with random allocation to equal groups, and the study is conducted at Foundation University College of Physical Therapy in Islamabad. The trial tests whether one manual technique provides greater neck pain relief and functional improvement than the other when added to standard therapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could help clinicians choose the more effective manual therapy approach for reducing pain and improving neck function in chronic neck pain patients.
How similar studies have gone: Manual therapy comparisons exist, but direct head-to-head evidence comparing IASTM and PFS in chronic neck pain is limited, making this study relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria: * Patients aged 18-50 years * Chronic neck pain ≥ 12 weeks * Nonspecific neck pain * NPRS score ≥ 3 * Restricted or painful cervical ROM * Neck disability score 15- \>35 (moderate to severe disability) Exclusion criteria: * History of cervical surgery or recent trauma * Inflammatory, infectious, or malignant spinal conditions * Cervical disc pathology with neurological signs * Pregnancy * Skin lesions or conditions contraindicating IASTM
Where it's running
-
Foundation University College of Physical Therapy
Islamabad, Punjab Province, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Abdara Mariam, DPT
- Email: abdara231@gmail.com
- Phone: +92-3379917480
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.