Abstract

Introduction. In present times, vast majority of patients with back ailments complain about pain in cervical spine area. The use of  exercises based on biofeedback as well as  patient’s full engagement and focus  are designed to restore sufficient control to deep stabilizers of the cervical spine, where  vestibular system plays a crucial role.  The following method is appropriate for patients who experience different types of pain since it will not inflict further damage or exacerbate existing degeneration in that segment.

Purpose of the study. The purpose of this study is to analyze how central stabilization exercises influence stability of the neck in cognitive phase and whether they minimize neck pain, correct and restore overall motor control to effectively improve everyday physical activity and activities of daily living.

Measures and test methods. The subject of this research were patients with neck pain syndrome. The group of participants took part in a three-week program, which involved exercising central stability of the neck. The test measures were: Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), measures of neck mobility, Neck Disability Index, repositioning to neutral spot, as well as The Dartmouth Coop Functional and Health Status Measures for Adults. The patients were examined before and after completing the program.

Results. The study has shown that neck pain decreased by 1.7 points in 80% of the respondents. It has been observed that after the program patients had experienced increased neck mobility by 1 centimeter on average in all ranges of motion. They have also reported improved everyday physical activity and greater physical fitness.

Conclusions. Exercising central stability of the cervical spine in cognitive phase are beneficial for: restoring motor control, relieving neck pain, increasing range of motion of the head, and improving everyday physical activity.

Key words:

central stability, cervical spine, cognitive