Effects of Scapular Stabilization Program in Patients Chronic Non-specific Neck Pain

The aim of this study is to determine the effects of scapular stabilization program on pain, range of motion and disability in patients with chronic non- specific neck pain. This study will be a randomized controlled trial and 28 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria will be included in the study. they will be allocated into 2 groups using non- probability purposive sampling technique. Experimental group will receive relaxation exercises for the cervico-scapular region combined with SSP(scapular stabilization program). The Control group will receive relaxation exercises only. Outcome measure: Numeric Pain Rating Scale, Goniometer, and Neck Disability Index will measure pain, range of motion, and disability. The experimental group will receive a total of 45 minutes sessions, thrice a week on alternate days for 3 weeks. The Control group will receive relaxation exercises in cervico-scapular region including neck stretches, stretches of scapular muscles, and myofascial release 3 times a week for 3 weeks on alternate days. Measurements will be taken at the baseline, at the end of 3rd week and for long term effects follow- up at 6 weeks. Data will be analyzed by SPSS version 20.

This study will provide evidence for management strategies of chronic NNP (nonspecific neck pain) solely focusing on a well-designed SSP (scapular stabilization program). The study will enable physiotherapists to induct this exercise program (Scapular stabilization program) in their treatment regimens to manage NNP. Some studies have used these exercises in combination to treat people with chronic neck pain. It is hypothesized that adding a scapular stabilization program will increase treatment efficacy. This study will enable us to solely evaluate the effects of SSP on NNP without adding other treatment strategies. This study aims to determine the effects of a scapular stabilization program on pain, range of motion and disability in patients with chronic non-specific neck pain. This study will be a randomized controlled trial and 28 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria will be included in the study. they will be allocated into 2 groups using the non-probability purposive sampling technique. The experimental group will receive relaxation exercises for the cervico-scapular region combined with SSP(scapular stabilization program). The Control group will receive relaxation exercises only. Outcome measure: Numeric Pain Rating Scale, Goniometer and Neck Disability Index will measure pain, range of motion, and disability. The experimental group will receive a total of 45 minutes sessions, thrice a week on alternate days for 3 weeks. The Control group will receive relaxation exercises in the cervico-scapular region including neck stretches, stretches of scapular muscles, and myofascial release 3 times a week for 3 weeks on alternate days. Measurements will be taken at the baseline, at the end of the 3rd week and for long-term effects follow up at the 6th week. Data will be analyzed by SPSS version 20.

Eligibility Criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients of age between 18-35 years

  * NPRS value more than or equal to 4
  * Chronic nonspecific neck pain for more than 3 months
  * Shoulder flexion 130˚ or more

Exclusion Criteria:

* Structural abnormalities like fractures/spondylosis

  * Any other musculoskeletal problem
  * Neurological problems
  * H/o cervical or thoracic surgery Psychological disorders