Effects of GPR with K-Stretch Hammock on Posture and Musculoskeletal Discomfort

This study aims to evaluate the effects of Global Postural Reeducation (RPG) using the K-Stretch hammock on workers at San Jorge University who experience neck and lower back discomfort due to prolonged sitting. The primary goal is to examine how this intervention impacts posture, musculoskeletal discomfort, flexibility, and range of motion, as well as participants' quality of life, stress levels, and sleep quality.

Neck and lower back discomfort are common issues that significantly impact individuals' quality of life and work performance. Global Postural Reeducation (RPG) is a therapeutic approach that focuses on stretching and strengthening muscle chains to improve posture and alleviate discomfort. This study is innovative in applying RPG combined with a specialized K-Stretch hammock to assess its potential benefits in a workplace setting.

Participants will include 32 administrative staff members aged 19 to 65 who work predominantly in seated positions and meet specific inclusion criteria. They will undergo a 6-week program involving bi-weekly 30-minute sessions. The study will also compare pre- and post-intervention results to evaluate changes in musculoskeletal discomfort, functional abilities, and physical alignment. Findings from this study may contribute to developing effective workplace interventions for musculoskeletal health.

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This clinical trial investigates the effects of Global Postural Reeducation combined with the use of a specialized K-Stretch hammock on improving musculoskeletal discomfort and related physical and psychosocial outcomes in a workplace setting. The study specifically targets neck and lumbar musculoskeletal discomfort among technical and administrative staff at San Jorge University who are exposed to prolonged sedentary work conditions.

The research is designed as a two-group randomized controlled intervention study focusing on the application of a structured RPG program. Participants are randomized into two groups: the intervention group, referred to as Group 1, and a delayed-intervention group, referred to as Group 2. Group 1 undergoes the RPG intervention during the initial six-week phase, while Group 2 receives the same intervention after the post-intervention evaluation of Group 1.

The RPG methodology utilizes sustained muscle chain stretches facilitated by the K-Stretch hammock, which supports participants in achieving better posture and reducing tension in key areas prone to discomfort due to sedentary behavior. The intervention includes twelve sessions, each lasting thirty minutes, conducted twice weekly. Sessions emphasize targeted stretching techniques for muscle chains affecting the cervical and lumbar spine, integrating relaxation and alignment strategies to promote improved physical and mental well-being.

Key features of the protocol include several aspects. The study type is interventional. Allocation is randomized. The intervention model is sequential assignment. Masking is not applied in this open-label trial. The primary purpose is treatment.

The objectives of the study are as follows. The trial seeks to evaluate the impact of RPG with K-Stretch on musculoskeletal discomfort in cervical and lumbar regions. It aims to assess improvements in flexibility, range of motion, and postural alignment. Additionally, it investigates secondary outcomes, including perceived stress, sleep quality, and overall quality of life.

The intervention procedures are standardized to ensure consistency. Each session includes a warm-up phase with gentle preparatory stretches to enhance mobility. This is followed by a main phase consisting of targeted RPG exercises using the K-Stretch hammock to address muscle imbalances, posture correction, and tension relief. The session concludes with a cool-down phase involving relaxation techniques to consolidate benefits and minimize post-exercise discomfort.

Assessment tools and timelines are employed to measure both physical and psychosocial variables. Physical outcomes include musculoskeletal discomfort measured by the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire, functional capacity assessed with the Oswestry Disability Index and Neck Disability Index, range of motion measured with a goniometer, muscle tone evaluated using the Myoton device, and postural assessment conducted with the Motiphysio Scanner and Spinal Mouse technology. Psychosocial outcomes include quality of life measured by the EQ-5D Questionnaire and stress levels assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale. Evaluations are conducted at baseline before the intervention, after the intervention for Group 1, and finally after the intervention for Group 2.

Data management and analysis follow strict ethical guidelines. Data are pseudonymized using unique alphanumeric codes assigned to each participant to ensure confidentiality. Statistical analysis will be conducted using software tools such as SPSS, focusing on within-group and between-group comparisons. The primary endpoint is the reduction in musculoskeletal discomfort, while secondary endpoints include functional and psychosocial improvements.

This trial is expected to provide robust evidence supporting the use of RPG with the K-Stretch hammock as a workplace intervention to mitigate musculoskeletal issues. By addressing physical and psychosocial health, the intervention may enhance productivity, reduce absenteeism, and contribute to a healthier work environment.

By integrating innovative techniques with rigorous assessment, this study aims to contribute significantly to the field of occupational health and rehabilitative practices. The findings will inform future research and practical applications for managing musculoskeletal discomfort in various populations.

Eligibility Criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:

* Be a university administrative or technical staff member over 18 years old who works in a seated position during the workday.
* Have at least one year of experience in the current position.
* Present nonspecific cervical and/or lumbar musculoskeletal discomfort.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Be pregnant or breastfeeding.
* Have a diagnosed condition that prevents participation in an RPG session using the K-Stretch hammock.
* Participate in activities involving RPG and/or back health programs.