Neck Strengthening in Non-Specific Chronic Neck Pain

This study aims to investigate the effects of exercise interventions on neck muscle morphometry and composition in individuals with chronic non specific neck pain. The participants will be randomly assigned to either a moderate intensity or a high intensity neck strengthening program. The primary outcomes include neck disability. Secondary outcomes include changes in muscle volume and fat infiltration in the neck muscles measured using MRI, pain intensity, anxiety, and depression. The results of this study will contribute the future rehabilitation strategies.

Chronic neck pain is a prevalent condition that significantly affects the quality of life for many individuals. It has been observed that individuals with chronic neck pain may experience alterations in muscle composition, including changes in muscle volume and the presence of fat infiltration. Exercise interventions have shown promise in improving muscle function and reducing pain in this population.

Objective:

The objective of this randomized controlled trial is to investigate the effects of two different exercise interventions on the disability and muscle composition in individuals with chronic non specific neck pain. The study aims to compare the outcomes of a moderate intensity neck strengthening program and a high intensity neck strengthening program.

Methods:

Participants will be recruited and randomly assigned to either the moderate intensity neck strengthening (MINS) group or the high intensity neck strengthening (HINS) group. The exercise interventions will be supervised by qualified physiotherapists and will consist of targeted exercises specifically designed to strengthen the neck muscles.

Outcomes :

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Neck Disability Index (NDI), pain intensity, psychological measures such as anxiety and depression using validated questionnaires.

Data analysis :

Pre- and post-intervention measurements within each group and examining the between-group differences.

Conclusion:

This study aims to provide valuable insights into the effects of different exercise interventions on the disability an neck muscle morphometry/composition in individuals with chronic non specific neck pain. The study aims to enhance the understanding of the underlying mechanisms and potential benefits in this population. The findings may contribute to the development of targeted rehabilitation strategies that can effectively improve muscle function and reduce pain in individuals with chronic neck pain.

Eligibility Criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:

* have experienced chronic non-specific neck pain for at least three months, exhibit symptoms triggered by neck movement, and score at least 20% on the Neck Disability Index questionnaire

Exclusion Criteria:

* history of head or neck surgery or fracture, rheumatoid or metabolic disease, inability to understand or write in French, significant trauma such as a car accident, previous or current neoplasm, known psychiatric conditions like bipolar disorder, current pregnancy for women, clinical or radiological neurological features, cardiovascular or respiratory conditions, and drug or alcohol abuse