A Comparative Study Between Scapular Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation With Conventional Therapy And Conventional Therapy Alone, On Non Specific Neck Pain, Posture And Function

Effect Of Scapular PNF On Neck Pain & Posture

Abstract

Background: In an estimated 50–80% of cases involving back or neck pain, an underlying pathology cannot be determined. One of the factors that has been implicated in the pathogenesis of neck pain is scapular function. Various studies correlate scapular dysfunction with a decrease in cranio-vertebral angle, i.e., forward head posture. Aim & Objectives: Our study aimed to compare between scapular proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation with conventional therapy and conventional therapy alone on non-specific neck pain intensity using the Visual Analogue Scale, head – neck posture (Craniovertebral angle)using a modified goniometer, scapular posture using a modification of the Lateral Scapular Slide Test, and function using the Neck Pain and Disability Scale. Material And Methods: 60 patients with non specific neck pain and scapular dysfunction on the Lateral Scapular Slide Test were included. They were allocated into two separate groups. Treatment in both groups was given every alternate day for 4 weeks. A home exercise program was prescribed to be performed twice a day. Result: Results showed significant improvement in pain intensity, head-neck posture, scapular posture, and function in both groups. However, when compared, scapular PNF, along with conventional therapy, demonstrated significantly better results than conventional therapy alone in all parameters, which were satisfied at 95% CI with significance 0.05. Conclusion: This implies the need for identification and treatment of scapular dysfunction in neck pain patients. [M M Natl J Integr Res Med, 2020; 11(4):33-41]