Effect of integrated neuromuscular inhibition, muscle energy and strain counter strain technique in the management of mechanical neck pain

Abstract

Background: One of the most prevalent musculoskeletal conditions worldwide is neck pain. Neck pain is associated with disability and is a risk factor for decreased productivity.

Objective: To compare the effects of neuromuscular inhibition, muscle energy and strain counter strain techniques in management of pain, disability and range of motion in patients with mechanical neck pain.

Methods: This randomized clinical trial (RIPHAH/RCRS/REC/Letter-01064) was conducted in Pakistan Railway General Hospital and Ali Ahmad Physiocare clinic, Islamabad from December 2021 to March 2022. Both gender participants from 30-60 years with mechanical neck pain (> 3 months) were enrolled through non-probability convenience sampling. Strain Counter Strain Technique, Muscle Energy Technique, and Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition Technique are administered to Group A, B and C respectively three times a week for four weeks with conventional treatment. SPSS version 23 was used to evaluate data of VAS, neck disability index, and goniometer that were taken before, after two and four weeks of treatment.

Results: Within group analysis of Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition (INIT) Group, Strain Counter Strain (SCS) Group and Muscle Energy Technique (METS) Group shows that the results were significant (p<0.05). Group differences were noted at conclusion of 4th week for VAS(P<0.005). There were no group differences at the end of 4th week for NDI (P = 0.186) and Goniometer(P=0.071). But statistical comparison of results of the techniques showed that INIT group had greater improvement than the SCS and METS.

Conclusion: By reducing pain, improving range of motion, and decreasing disability, INIT, METS, and SCS were found to be effective in treating individuals with mechanical neck discomfort.