Targeted Cervical Versus Integrated Trunk and Diaphragmatic Muscle Retraining for Chronic Mechani… (NCT07691151) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
Targeted Cervical Versus Integrated Trunk and Diaphragmatic Muscle Retraining for Chronic Mechanical Neck Pain
United Arab Emirates40 participantsStarted 2026-05-02
Plain-language summary
Persistent pain, functional disability, cervical motor control deficit, and abnormal posture are associated with chronic mechanical neck pain. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of an integrated physiotherapy program of cervical motor control training, lumbopelvic stabilization, diaphragmatic breathing exercises, and pressure biofeedback versus conventional cervical physiotherapy in patients with chronic mechanical neck pain through a randomized controlled trial.
40 eligible participants were randomly assigned to the experimental or control group. The two groups were all given supervised physiotherapy three times a week for 6 weeks plus a standardized home exercise program. The main aim was to investigate the efficacy of the interventions on pain intensity and neck related disability. Secondary outcomes were CROM, DCFE, head position, and patient perceived recovery. Outcome measures were conducted at both baseline and the end of the six-week intervention.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 60 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Age in the range 18-60 years.
* CNMP (lasting more than 3 months).
* NPRS score ≥ 3.
* Head Impact Test (HIT-6) score \< 50.
* Absence of clinical signs of cervical radiculopathy.
* Capacity to comprehend study procedures, follow directions for exercising and sign informed consent in writing.
* Diaphragmatic function impairment by the DNS diaphragm test with asymmetric or inadequate rib expansion laterally, high elevation of upper chest or shoulder girdle and diminished truncal stabilization during inhalation.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Participants were excluded if they had cervical radiculopathy, cervical myelopathy, previous cervical spine surgery, spinal fracture, inflammatory arthritis, malignancy, neurological disorders, pregnancy, or any other serious spinal pathology that would make it difficult for the participant to participate in the rehabilitation programme. People with cognitive deficits or any medical condition which hampered their safe involvement in the exercise programme were also excluded.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.