Effects of scapular stabilization and upper limb proprioception as an adjunct to cervical stabilization in chronic neck pain patients: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Chronic neck pain is a prevalent health condition and a leading cause of disability worldwide. Prompt therapeutic measures are required to overcome this condition.

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of incorporation of scapular stabilization and upper limb proprioceptive exercises to cervical stabilization exercises in patients with chronic neck pain (CNP).

Design: A single-blinded randomized controlled design.

Methods: A sample of convenience was deployed to recruit twenty-eight patients having CNP (18-45 years) and was randomized into two groups: group A (cervical stabilization exercises group) and group B (scapular stabilization and upper limb proprioceptive exercises group + cervical stabilization exercises). Pain intensity, disability, sleep quality, quality of life, scapular muscles strength and proprioception were assessed at 4 weeks follow up to determine the efficacy of the intervention.

Results: A mixed model ANOVA was used. A statistically significant (p < 0.05) group by time interaction for pain intensity (p = 0.000), scapular muscles strength of all muscles (p = 0.000) was observed. Significant group interaction for absolute error (p = 0.00), for pain (p = 0.001), disability (p = 0.04) and scapular muscle's strength (p = 0.000) was also demonstrated.

Conclusion: The results indicated that scapular stabilization and upper limb proprioceptive exercises when combined with cervical stabilization exercises are more beneficial in alleviating pain and disability and improving scapular muscle strength and proprioception in patients with CNP.

Keywords: Exercise therapy; Neck pain; Proprioception; Scapula; Upper extremity.