Strain Counter Strain vs. Conventional Stretching for neck pain in school-aged kids who sit too long at screens
Official title: Comparison of Strain Counter Strain and Conventional Stretching on Pain Intensity and Cervical Range of Motion in School- Aged Children With Mechanical Neck Pain Related to Prolonged Screen Use.
Run by Riphah International University · NCT07920978 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether strain counter strain or traditional neck stretches relieve pain and improve neck movement in kids aged 8–14 who have neck pain from long screen time.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 8 Years to 14 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Riphah International University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Islamabad) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 1, 2026 |
| Main results expected | March 2027 |
| Study ends | March 2027 |
| Registry record updated | November 6, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07920978 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Children aged 8–14 with mechanical neck pain associated with more than 3 hours of daily screen time.
✕Probably not a fit
Children with neck pain from causes other than prolonged screen use or with conditions excluded by the study criteria 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
This interventional study compares two physical therapy approaches—strain counter strain and conventional neck stretching—in school-aged children with mechanical neck pain related to prolonged screen use. Participants will be 8 to 14 years old and must have more than 3 hours of daily screen time. Outcomes include pain intensity and cervical range of motion to determine which method provides greater relief and mobility. The study is conducted at FZ International Hospital in Islamabad with lead sponsorship from Riphah International University. No collaboration affiliations are listed.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the intervention could offer an evidence-based option to reduce neck pain and improve neck mobility in children who use screens extensively.
How similar studies have gone: Prior research in adults and limited pediatric work suggest physical therapy approaches can reduce neck pain, but evidence in this specific pediatric population is limited.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Children aged 8-14 years * Mechanical neck pain associated with prolonged screen use * Screen time of more than 3 hours per day. Exclusion Criteria: * Congenital cervical deformities. * Neurological disorders. * Musculoskeletal disorders affecting neck * History of cervical spine surgery * Screen time of less than 3 hours per day.
Where it's running
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Fz International Hospital
Islamabad, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Qamar Mehmood, MS — Riphah International University
- Study coordinator: Qamar Mehmood
- Email: qamar.mehmood@riphah.edu.pk
- Phone: 0333 5151063
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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.