Clinical Research Directory

Effects of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization Versus Post Facilitation Stretch Technique in Chronic Neck Pain

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.