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Effects of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization Versus Post Facilitation Stretch Technique in Chronic Neck Pain
Sponsor: Foundation University Islamabad
Summary
Chronic neck pain is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition that commonly results in persistent pain, reduced cervical range of motion (ROM), functional disability, and decreased quality of life. Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) and Post Facilitation Stretch (PFS) are two manual therapy techniques frequently used in physiotherapy practice; however, limited evidence is available comparing their effectiveness in individuals with chronic neck pain. This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effects of IASTM and PFS on pain intensity, cervical ROM, and neck-related disability. A total of 38 participants aged 18-50 years with non-specific chronic neck pain of at least 12 weeks' duration will be recruited using non-probability purposive sampling and randomly allocated into two equal groups. Group A will receive IASTM, while Group B will receive PFS. Both groups will also receive conventional physiotherapy consisting of hot pack application and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). Treatment will be provided three times per week for two consecutive weeks, totaling six treatment sessions. Outcome measures will include the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) to assess pain intensity, the Cervical Range of Motion (CROM) instrument to measure cervical mobility, and the Neck Disability Index (NDI) to evaluate functional disability. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, after the third treatment session, and at the completion of the intervention period. The study findings are expected to provide evidence regarding the comparative effectiveness of IASTM and PFS in the management of chronic neck pain and assist physiotherapists in selecting the most effective manual therapy approach to improve pain, cervical mobility, and functional outcomes in individuals with chronic neck pain.
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 50 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
38
Start Date
2026-02-12
Completion Date
2027-01-18
Last Updated
2026-10-21
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is a manual therapy technique that utilizes specially designed stainless-steel instruments to detect and treat soft tissue restrictions, myofascial adhesions, and scar tissue. The technique involves applying controlled mechanical pressure using longitudinal, fanning, and cross-fiber strokes to improve tissue mobility, enhance local circulation, stimulate tissue remodeling, and reduce pain. In this study, IASTM will be applied to the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and suboccipital muscles following conventional physiotherapy. The intervention aims to restore normal soft tissue mobility, improve cervical range of motion, decrease pain, and enhance functional outcomes in individuals with chronic neck pain.
Post Facilitation Stretch
Post Facilitation Stretch (PFS) is a muscle energy-based manual therapy technique designed to reduce muscle tightness, improve flexibility, and restore normal muscle length through neuromuscular inhibition. The technique involves positioning the target muscle at its initial barrier, followed by a controlled submaximal isometric contraction against therapist resistance for 5-10 seconds. After the contraction, the patient relaxes while the therapist gently stretches the muscle to a new barrier. This sequence is repeated for 3-5 cycles to enhance muscle extensibility and reduce stiffness. In this study, PFS will be applied to the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and suboccipital muscles following conventional physiotherapy to improve cervical mobility, reduce pain, and enhance functional outcomes in individuals with chronic neck pain.
Locations (1)
Foundation University College of Physical Therapy
Islamabad, Punjab Province, Pakistan