Effects of post-isometric relaxation, myofascial trigger point release and routine physical therapy in management of acute mechanical neck pain: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the effects of post-isometric relaxation, myofascial trigger point release and routine physical therapy on pain, disability and cervical range of motion in patients with acute mechanical neck pain.

METHODS

The randomised control trial was conducted at the District Headquarter Hospital in Nowshehra, Pakistan, from July to December 2017 and comprised subjects of either gender aged 16-49 years with acute neck pain. They were randomised into three groups; post-isometric relaxation group 1, myofascial trigger point release group 2 and routine physical therapy group 3. Neck disability index, numeric pain rating scale and cervical goniometry were documented before intervention, after the first session and after 6 sessions in two weeks. Data was analysed using SPSS 21.

RESULTS

Of the 60 patients, there were 20(33.3%) in each of the three groups. Mean age in group 1 was 32.25±9.56 years, group 2 2.35±9.05 years and in group 3 it was 32.75±7.82 years. Scores for neck disability index and numeric pain rating scale as well as rotation to right and left showed significant difference among the groups post-treatment (p<0.05). Within group analysis showed significant improvements in all parameters post-treatment in all the groups (p<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Acute mechanical neck pain treated with post-isometric relaxation technique had more and faster effect in decreasing pain and disability and in improving mobility.