Self-Mobilization With SNAGs Vs. DIE on CMNP in Computer Professionals

King Saud University40 enrolled

Overview

The goal of this clinical trial was to find out whether a self-applied neck mobilization technique (called self-SNAGs) or neck strengthening exercises (dynamic isometric exercises) works better to reduce pain and improve daily function in computer professionals aged 25-45 years who had long-lasting mechanical neck pain. The main questions it aimed to answer were: * Does self-SNAG treatment reduce neck pain more than strengthening exercises? * Does self-SNAG treatment improve neck-related daily activities more than strengthening exercises? Researchers compared self-SNAG exercises with dynamic isometric neck exercises to see which approach led to greater pain relief and better function over six weeks. Participants were asked to: * Perform either self-SNAG neck movements using a towel or neck-strengthening exercises using elastic bands. * Do the exercises five days per week for six weeks. * Follow ergonomic advice for proper posture during computer work. * Complete pain and disability questionnaires before and after the program.

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

DOUBLE

Enrollment

Conditions

Chronic Mechanical Neck Pain

Interventions

Participants in the Self-SNAG Group performed self-administered cervical SNAG mobilizations using a towel following initial physiotherapist instruction to ensure correct technique. Movements included cervical extension, bilateral rotation, and bilateral lateral flexion. The towel edge was placed beneath the targeted vertebral level to apply a sustained glide while participants actively moved through the available range, with brief end-range overpressure before returning to neutral. Each movement was repeated 6-10 times per session.

Dynamic Isometric ExerciseOTHER

Participants in the DIE Group performed dynamic isometric exercises using elastic resistance bands, including resisted flexion, extension, and lateral flexion. The band was secured around the head and anchored to a stable surface while participants maintained upright posture and controlled cervical alignment. The head was displaced approximately 10 cm against resistance and slowly returned to the starting position. Each session comprised 2-3 sets of 10-15 repetitions per movement, with instruction to prevent compensatory motions.

Eligibility

Sex: ALLMin age: 25 YearsMax age: 45 Years

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: * Participants' ages ranged from 25 to 45 years. * Having chronic mechanical neck pain persisting for at least 3 months. * Computer users of at least 4 to 5 hours daily for greater than 3 years. * Understand and be able to perform the indicated exercises well. * Cooperation in the study with voluntary participation. Exclusion Criteria: * Prior history of musculoskeletal neck disorders, trauma, fracture, inflammation, malignancy, active infection, any neurological disorders or deficits, and any spinal surgeries. * Acute mechanical neck pain * Non-cooperation in the study,

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Pain Intensity

Pain intensity was assessed using a reliable and valid Visual Analog Scale, marked with 0 and 10 at either end, indicating no pain and unbearable pain, respectively.

Time frame: 6 weeks

Functional Disability

Participants' functional disability was measured using the reliable and validated Neck Disability Index (NDI), with total scores ranging from 0 (no disability) to 50 (severe disability).