Post-isometric relaxation versus post-isometric stretching for neck pain management
Official title: Effects of Post Isometric Relaxation as Compared to Post Isometric Stretching Muscle Energy Technique in the Management of Neck Pain
Run by Foundation University Islamabad · NCT07328256 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study will test whether post-isometric relaxation or post-isometric stretching works better to reduce pain and improve neck movement in adults aged 19–44 with subacute or chronic neck pain.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 19 Years to 44 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Foundation University Islamabad Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Islamabad, Punjab Province) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 15, 2025 |
| Main results expected | December 30, 2025 |
| Study ends | December 15, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | January 9, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07328256 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 19–44 of any gender with subacute or chronic neck pain lasting 4–12 weeks, pain rated 4–8 on the NPRS, and limited neck movement are the intended participants.
✕Probably not a fit
People with recent cervical fracture or surgery, significant cervical trauma within 12 months, cervical radiculopathy or myelopathy, cervical spondylosis or syringomyelia, systemic inflammatory or malignant disease, infection, thoracic outlet syndrome, or vascular disorders like vertebrobasilar insufficiency are excluded and unlikely to benefit from these techniques in this trial.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This randomized, single-blind trial will enroll 50 participants with subacute or chronic neck pain and randomly assign them to receive either post-isometric relaxation (PIR) or post-isometric stretching (PIS). All participants will first receive standard care with TENS and hot pack application, then undergo five consecutive treatment sessions of either PIR (gentle isometric contractions followed by relaxation) or PIS (isometric contraction followed by a stretch) with 3–5 repetitions per session. Outcomes include pain intensity, cervical range of motion, and neck disability, measured before and after the intervention. The design compares two commonly used muscle energy techniques to determine relative effectiveness and tolerability.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the better technique could provide a simple, low-risk way to reduce neck pain and improve function for people with subacute or chronic neck pain.
How similar studies have gone: Prior studies of muscle energy techniques showed benefits over static stretching, but direct head-to-head comparisons of PIR versus PIS are limited, leaving this question relatively untested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: • Age ranging from 19-44 years old * Both gender * With sub-acute or chronic neck pain for at least 4 to 12 weeks * Pain intensity on NPRS ranging 4-8 * Limitation on neck movement Exclusion Criteria: * • Positive history of fracture * Surgery in the cervical region * Any sort of physical trauma in the cervical region in the last 12 months * Thoracic Outlet syndrome * Cervical radiculopathy * Cervical myelopathy * Cervical spondylosis * Cervical syringomyelia * Any systemic disorder including malignancy or inflammatory and rheumatic disorders * Infection * Vascular syndromes such as vertebrobasilar insufficiency (VBI).
Where it's running
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Foundation University College of Physical Therapy
Islamabad, Punjab Province, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Fui — Foundation University Islamabad
- Study coordinator: Areeka Riasat, DPT
- Email: arikariasat4830@gmail.com
- Phone: 03219390688
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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.