Comparison of Gongs Mobilization and Kaltenborn Mobilization on Mechanical Neck Pain

: Neck pain is most common problem with point prevalence of almost 13% and lifetime prevalence of approximately 50%. Mechanical neck pain is defined as nonspecific neck pain arising from anywhere in area bounded above by superior nuchal line and below to first thoracic vertebrae tip and laterally to lateral borders of neck and pain increased by neck movement.

Impairment of cervical proprioception is significant issue in individuals with mechanical neck pain leading to disruption in sensorimotor control in neck. These disruptions can effect posture control and balance. Cervical sensorimotor control involves the central processing of sensory inputs, including visual, vestibular, and cervical proprioceptive information. This process leads to the execution of motor programs by cervical muscles, which plays a crucial role in maintaining head posture, balance, and the stability of cervical joints. Disturbances in cervical sensorimotor control, resulting from neck pain, may potentially lead to additional tissue damage, worsen pain through sensitization in both the peripheral and central nervous systems, and promote dysfunctional motion patterns.

According to literature Gongs mobilization which is an end range mobilization technique introduced by Wontae Gong at all. It has significance that movement of the joint facets other than the fixed one are maximally restricted and mobilization is induced using acceleration and gravity. For mechanical neck pain Kaltenborn mobilization also improved symptoms.

Previous studies worked on effectiveness of Kaltenborn mobilization and Gongs mobilization on neck pain. Aim of this study will be to determine which technique is more in improving pain, ROM and proprioception in mechanical neck pain patients. Our study is related to the fact that it will be helpful for future healthcare provider and will have a significant role in health promotion and spread a healthy lifestyle to public.