Comparing Muscle Energy Technique and Myofascial Release for Upper Cross Syndrome in College Students: A Pilot Study

Not yet recruiting

• Conditions: Disorder of muscle, unspecified,

• Registration Number: CTRI/2025/04/085268
• Lead Sponsor: Galgotias University

Brief Summary

Cervical Cross Syndrome, referred to as Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS) is described as a predictive pattern of alternative tightness and weakness of Upper Trapezius, Pectoralis Major, Levator Scapulae, Rhomboids,Serratus Anterior and Deep Flexors of the neck, particularly Scalene muscles caused due to poor working habits, inappropriate body ergonomics, or low self-esteem7,8,9. Upper Cross Syndrome is a characterized by muscular imbalance of skeletal muscles activation and inhibition rather than just single muscle involvement. Any failure of activation between tonic and phasic muscles results in muscular insufficiencies10. Consequently, neck and upper back pain is the foremost complaint of UCS 2

This syndrome can cause a multitude of dysfunctions within the body including headaches, early degeneration of the cervical spine, and loss of the cervical curve. In addition, UCS can cause an abnormal kyphotic thoracic spine and altered biomechanics of the glenohumeral joint. Altered biomechanics of the cervical spine may lead to a loss of cervical curve and, if not addressed, degeneration of the cervical spine.The alterations in function of the musculature, in people with UCS, often cause theseindividuals to develop chronic headaches. “Age-related degenerative changes have an impact on the structure of tissues and the subsequent mechanics of the cervical spine. Posture is a product of multiple biomechanical processes within the body to include but not limited to, joint structure and function, muscle balance, nervous system function, and the righting reflex. Through the aging process, UCS affects one’s ability to compensate for aberrant functioning systems within our bodies. This decline in compensation and increase in symptomatology can lead to more chronic and degenerative changes.4

Detailed Description

Not available

Study Timeline

• Last Update Posted: 2025-04-21
• Study Start: 2025-08-05

Recruitment & Eligibility

• Status: Not Yet Recruiting
• Sex: Not specified
• Target Recruitment: 40

Inclusion Criteria

• AGE 18-30 Year Gender Male & Female Students Diagnosed with Upper Cross Syndrome based on clinical evaluation or diagnostic criteria.
• Pain in neck and shoulder.

Exclusion Criteria

• Individuals with severe contraindications to manual therapy (e.g., recent trauma, acute injuries, or severe medical conditions).
• Patients with other significant musculoskeletal or neurological disorders that could confound the results.
• Pregnant individuals or those with specific health conditions that may affect the safety or efficacy of Muscle Energy Technique or Myofascial release Recent surgery in neck shoulder.

Study & Design

• Study Type: Interventional
• Study Design: Not specified

Primary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
VAS SCALE	4 WEEKS

Trial Locations

Locations (1)

School Of Allied Health Sciences Galgotias University; 🇮🇳 Nagar, UTTAR PRADESH, India

School Of Allied Health Sciences Galgotias University

🇮🇳Nagar, UTTAR PRADESH, India

Narendra Kumar

Principal investigator

8447767591

narendrakumar@galgotiasuniversity.edu.in