Streszczenie

Background. Mechanical neck pain (MNP) is one of the most common disorders that originates from poor postural habits and bad ergonomics. Forward head posture (FHP) was highly correlated to MNP. Muscle energy technique (MET) and stretching are easy widespread therapeutic techniques that are known for their effects in improving tissue extensibility, relieving pain and promoting function.
Objective. A randomized controlled trial was designed to compare the effect of MET versus static stretching in terms of FHP, pain and disability in patients with MNP.
Methods. Thirty participants (3 males and 27 females, 18-30 years old) were randomly allocated into one of 3 groups: group (A) received MET+ hydrocollator pack+ postural education, group (B) received stretching and strengthening exercises+ hydrocollator pack+ postural education, group (C) control group received hydrocollator pack+ postural education, 3 sessions /week for 4 weeks. Evaluation was done pre-treatment, post-treatment and after 6-weeks of follow-up. Results: There were significant improvement (p<0.05) in all tested variables in all groups post-treatment except disability in control group. There was significant improvement of pain in all groups, disability in experimental groups and FHP in stretching group only at the follow-up. There were no significant differences between groups in all measured variables.
Conclusion. MET has equal effect to that of static stretching regarding pain and function even after 6-weeks of follow-up. Stretching showed better improvement in FHP correction that persists. Postural education is effective in pain management and seems to have a role in preserving long-term outcome.

Słowa kluczowe:

Forward Head Posture, Mechanical Neck Pain, Muscle Energy Technique, Static stretching, Visual Analogue Scale, Neck Disability Index, Craniovertebral angle