Reverse vs Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glides for Upper Cross Syndrome
Official title: Comparative Effects of Reverse Natural Apophyseal Glides Versus Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glides in Patients With Upper Cross Syndrome
Run by Foundation University Islamabad · NCT07834177 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether two manual therapy techniques (reverse and sustained glides) added to standard physiotherapy improve posture and neck/shoulder symptoms in adults with Upper Cross Syndrome.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 20 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 44 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Foundation University Islamabad Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Islamabad, Punjab Province) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 11, 2026 |
| Main results expected | December 18, 2026 |
| Study ends | January 18, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | September 22, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07834177 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 20–40 with chronic neck pain (NPRS 3–7) and posture changes (craniovertebral angle < 48°, thoracic kyphosis > 40°) who can follow instructions and provide consent.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals whose condition does not respond to cervical-thoracic manual therapy or who have exclusion criteria (e.g., cervical radiculopathy, vertebrobasilar insufficiency, recent spinal surgery, osteoporosis, pregnancy) may not experience benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Adults aged 20 to 40 with chronic neck pain and posture-related changes are randomized to receive either Reverse Natural Apophyseal Glides or Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glides, both in addition to a standardized physiotherapy program over four weeks. The manual therapy focuses on the lower cervical to upper thoracic spine (C6–T2), with sessions three times weekly. The protocol includes a hot pack, pectoral, upper trapezius, and levator scapulae stretching, and a strengthening program for deep neck flexors and scapular stabilizers. Outcomes will reflect changes in posture, neck pain, and functional measures. The trial is sponsored by Foundation University Islamabad with no listed collaborators and is conducted at Foundation University College of Physical Therapy in Islamabad.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could offer a more effective manual therapy option to improve posture and reduce neck pain in adults with Upper Cross Syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have used similar manual therapy approaches for neck-posture conditions, but direct comparison of these two glides in UCS is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria * Both genders. * Age 20 to 40 years. * Patients who had been experiencing chronic neck pain for three months or longer. * Pain intensity of 3 or more and less than 8 on NPRS. * Craniovertebral angle less than 48 degrees. * Thoracic kyphosis angle greater than 40 degrees * Participants able to understand instructions and provide informed consent. Exclusion Criteria * Cervical radiculopathy * Vertebrobasilar insufficiency * Patients with a history of spinal surgery * Any history of trauma or whiplash injury (from the past 6 months to 1 year) * Diagnosed cases of osteoporosis * Pregnancy * Patients with diagnosed systemic diseases. * Patients with a known medical diagnosis of spinal cord compression.
Where it's running
-
Foundation University College of Physical Therapy
Islamabad, Punjab Province, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Arshia Iqbal, DPT
- Email: arsheeya.iqbal@gmail.com
- Phone: +92 332 1514083
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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.