Progressive muscle relaxation versus muscle energy technique for chronic neck pain in heavy computer users

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This is a randomized controlled comparison of progressive muscle relaxation technique (PMRT) versus muscle energy technique (MET) delivered to desk-based computer users with nonspecific chronic neck pain. Sixty participants aged 20–45 with hypertonicity of the upper trapezius and SCM and at least one latent trigger point will be randomized to one of the two active interventions. Treatments and assessments are delivered in an outpatient/workplace-linked setting at the Sindh Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, with one blinded investigator performing screening, baseline, and post-treatment assessments. Outcomes will focus on changes in pain intensity and local muscle tension around identified trigger points.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Persons using computer more than 6 hours throughout the day, intermittently both genders.
* Age between 20-45.
* Hypertonicity of trapezius muscle and SCM muscle. Specifically, those workers have neck pain and stiffness (including trouble tilting or turning head). Patients who reported small tightening and spasm at the posterior aspect of their neck are included, also associated with more diffuse neck pain patterns that included the following: headache, (upper back, neck and shoulder pain) numbness/ tingling in the hand/arm.
* Pain intensity of 2 on the NRS and presence of at least one latent trigger point in a taut band in the neck region.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Recent trauma to the cervical region
* Exclusion criteria based on with any serious pathology such as specific neck pain due to disc prolapsed, tumor of cervical spine, whiplash injury, cervical fractures, Cervicogenic headache, and any neurological signs consistent with nerve root compression

Where it's running

• Sindh Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
  Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Syeda Waniya Riaz, PhD (scholar), MSAPT, DPT — IQRA University
• Study coordinator: Syeda Waniya Riaz, PhD (scholar), MSAPT, DPT
• Email: waniya.riaz@iqra.edu.pk
• Phone: +923352783584

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.