Effect of sub-occipital muscle inhibition technique versus muscle energy technique in upper trapezius on pain, proprioception and functional disability in patient with nonspecific neck pain:A Comparative Study

This comparative study evaluates the effectiveness of Sub-occipital Muscle Inhibition (SMI) versus Muscle Energy Technique (MET) to the upper trapezius in patients with nonspecific neck pain (NSNP). Conducted at Dr. D.Y. Patil Physiotherapy OPD, Pimpri, Pune, the study includes 60 participants aged 25–50 years with mild to moderate disability (NDI score 15–24). Pain, proprioception, functional disability, and cervical range of motion are assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), cervical joint position error testing, Neck Disability Index (NDI), and universal goniometry. Participants with conditions like cervical radiculopathy, vertigo, fractures, tumors, psychological or metabolic disorders are excluded.This study involves two physiotherapy techniques for treating nonspecific neck pain: Sub-occipital Muscle Inhibition (SMI) and Muscle Energy Technique (MET) to the upper trapezius. In the MET technique, the patient lies supine while the therapist stabilizes the shoulder and positions the head to stretch the upper trapezius. The patient performs a sub-maximal isometric shoulder shrug against resistance for 7–10 seconds, followed by a 30-second stretch, repeated 3–5 times per session. In the SMI technique, the patient is also supine while the therapist applies gentle cranial traction at the sub-occipital region for 2–3 minutes until muscle relaxation is achieved. Both treatments are administered three times a week for two weeks.