Comparative Effects of Cervical Stabilization and Isometric Neck Exercises in Eyeglass Wearers With Non-specific Chronic Neck Pain

Overview

The goal of this randomized controlled trial is to compare the effects of cervical stabilization exercises and isometric neck exercises on pain, disability, quality of life, and kinesiophobia in eyeglasses wearers with Non-specific chronic neck pain. Participants were randomly assigned to either Group A (Isometric Neck Exercises) or Group B (Cervical Stabilization Exercises) using a toss-and-trial method. The intervention was provided over four weeks, with three sessions per week (total of 12 sessions): Group A (Isometric Neck Exercises): Participants performed isometric neck flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation. Each movement was hold for 10 seconds, repeated 5 times, with a 5-second rest between repetitions. Group B (Cervical Stabilization Exercises): Participants performed chin tucks, neck extensions, shoulder shrugging, shoulder rolling, and scapular retractions in a sitting position. Each exercise was performed 15 repetitions, 1 set, holding a 6-second contraction followed by 2 seconds of relaxation per repetition.

Non-specific neck pain, a common disorder of the musculoskeletal system, frequently manifests as discomfort and stiffness in the lateral and posterior aspects of the neck, often lacking distinctive diagnostic indicators.(1) Young adults are disproportionately affected by neck pain, with a significant proportion, between 42% and 67%, experiencing episodes within a one-year period. Notably, the Global Burden of Disease Study identifies neck pain, in tandem with low back pain, as the second most prevalent cause of disability among young adults aged 20-24, resulting in substantial years lived with disability.(2) Kinesiophobia refers to an excessive and debilitating fear of physical movement, stemming from a perceived vulnerability to pain or re-injury. This phenomenon is closely linked to pain catastrophizing, a cognitive and emotional response characterized by exaggerated negative thoughts and feelings about pain. In individuals experiencing chronic pain, pain catastrophizing can lead to a vicious cycle of increased pain perception, disability, and worsening impairment. Initially, these coping mechanisms may provide temporary relief during acute pain episodes. However, when pain persists, they can become maladaptive, perpetuating a cycle of fear, avoidance, and distress.(3) Wearing eyeglasses can significantly influence head and neck posture, as the body compensates for a reduced visual field by adjusting alignment. This compensatory mechanism may lead to chronic postural changes, including forward head posture and deep neck flexor weakness. The likelihood of developing forward head posture increases with the duration of eyeglasses use, highlighting the importance of assessing visual devices as part of patient care, especially when addressing neck pain and functional limitations. Exercise plays a vital role in managing neck pain by restoring tissue function and maintaining daily activities. Research has demonstrated that targeted exercises, such as isometric and cervical stabilization exercises, can effectively reduce pain, improve muscle performance, and enhance endurance. Neck stabilization exercises improve joint mobility, sensorimotor function, and relaxation, while isometric exercises strengthen weak muscles through proprioceptive engagement. This study aims to compare the therapeutic effects of cervical stabilization versus isometric neck exercises on pain, disability, quality of life, and kinesiophobia in eyeglass wearers with non-specific chronic neck pain, providing insights into the most effective exercise approach for this population.