Comparison of Effectiveness of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) versus Muscle Energy Technique (MET) on Pain, Posture and Cervical Range of Motion in Individuals with Upper Cross Syndrome

Upper Crossed Syndrome (UCS) is a common postural disorder characterized by muscle imbalance, forward head posture, rounded shoulders, neck pain, and reduced cervical range of motion, especially among young adults with prolonged sedentary habits and excessive screen use. Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation (IASTM) and Muscle Energy Technique (MET) are commonly used physiotherapy interventions for managing UCS; however, evidence comparing their relative effectiveness is limited.

This quasi-experimental study aims to compare the effectiveness of IASTM versus MET on pain, posture, and cervical range of motion in individuals with Upper Crossed Syndrome. A total of 40 participants aged 18–30 years with clinically diagnosed UCS will be recruited and allocated into two groups. Group A will receive routine physiotherapy along with IASTM, while Group B will receive routine physiotherapy along with MET. Both interventions will be administered three times per week for four weeks.

Outcome measures including pain (Visual Analogue Scale), posture (craniovertebral angle), and cervical range of motion (goniometry) will be assessed at baseline and after the intervention period. The findings of this study are expected to provide evidence-based guidance for physiotherapists in selecting the most effective manual therapy technique for improving pain, posture, and cervical mobility in individuals with Upper Crossed Syndrome.