Effect of Electromyography Biofeedback Training to Deep Neck Flexor in Mechanical Neck Pain Patients with Forward Head Posture
Overview
- Phase
- Not Applicable
- Status
- Recruiting
- Enrollment
- 40
- Locations
- 1
- Primary Endpoint
- CVA (using digital photography and goniometry), VAS for pain, NDI for functional disability, and cervical active range of motion (AROM)
Overview
Brief Summary
Effect of Electromyography Biofeedback Training to Deep Neck Flexor in Mechanical Neck Pain Patients with Forward Head Posture – A Prospective Interventional Study
Background & Rationale:
Mechanical neck pain and forward head posture (FHP) are increasingly common among individuals with sedentary lifestyles, especially those engaged in prolonged screen-based activities. FHP alters cervical spine mechanics, weakens deep cervical flexors (DCF), and leads to muscle imbalances and chronic pain. While chin tuck exercises are standard in rehabilitation, many patients struggle with proprioceptive awareness, limiting the effectiveness of conventional training. Electromyography (EMG) biofeedback offers real-time visual and auditory cues to enhance muscle activation and motor control, potentially improving postural correction and reducing symptoms.
Objective:
To assess the clinical efficacy of EMG biofeedback-assisted Deep Cervical Flexors (DCF) training versus conventional Deep Cervical Flexion exercises in individuals with mechanical neck pain and FHP.
Methodology:
Patients aged 20–50 years with diagnosed mechanical neck pain and CVA <50° will be recruited and randomly allocated to either an EMG biofeedback group or a control group. Both groups will perform identical DCF exercises daily for four weeks. Outcome measures will include Craniovertebral Angle (CVA), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, Neck Disability Index (NDI), and cervical Active Range of Motion (AROM), assessed pre and post-intervention.
Clinical Significance:
This study aims to generate evidence for the integration of EMG biofeedback into routine physiotherapy practice. If proven effective, it can offer a low-risk, accessible, and efficient intervention to improve posture, alleviate pain, and restore function in patients with cervical dysfunctions, particularly FHP. Findings from this study may inform future guidelines on cervical rehabilitation protocols.
Study Design
- Study Type
- Interventional
- Allocation
- Randomized
- Masking
- Participant and Outcome Assessor Blinded
Eligibility Criteria
- Ages
- 20.00 Year(s) to 50.00 Year(s) (—)
- Sex
- All
Inclusion Criteria
- •aged 20 to 50 years with mechanical neck pain and CVA more than 50 degrees were recruited.
Exclusion Criteria
- •Psychiatric disorder, Metabolic disorder, Hormonal disorder.
Outcomes
Primary Outcomes
CVA (using digital photography and goniometry), VAS for pain, NDI for functional disability, and cervical active range of motion (AROM)
Time Frame: Baseline, after 2 weeks, After 4 weeks
Secondary Outcomes
- Quality of life (SF-12)(At baseline, after week 2, after week 4)
Investigators
Rabia Aziz
Jamia Hamdard