Comparative Study To Find Out The Effectiveness Of Post Isometric Relaxation Versus Scapular Stabilization Exercises In Subjects With Work Related Neck Pain

Abstract

Question: Is scapular stabilization exercise more effective than post-isometric relaxation (PIR) in reducing pain, disability, and scapular dyskinesis in individuals with work-related neck pain?

Design: Randomized comparative study

Participants: Thirty sedentary workers (aged 18–30 years) with neck pain of 1 week to 3 months, LSST positive, and NPRS ≤ 8 were randomly allocated into two groups (n = 15 each).

Intervention: Group A received post-isometric relaxation techniques for upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and pectoralis minor muscles. Group B received scapular stabilization exercises targeting serratus anterior and lower trapezius. Both groups also performed dynamic neck exercises for 4 weeks, thrice weekly.

Outcome Measures: Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Neck Disability Index (NDI), and Lateral Scapular Slide Test (LSST) were measured pre- and post-intervention.

Results: Both groups showed significant improvement in NPRS, NDI, and LSST scores (p < 0.01). Group B showed a greater reduction in post-treatment NPRS (1.86 vs 3.47), NDI (7.73 vs 10.13), and LSST (0.68–0.85 vs 1.1–1.25) scores compared to Group A. Between-group comparison confirmed statistically significant differences favouring scapular stabilization exercises (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Scapular stabilization exercises are more effective than post-isometric relaxation techniques in reducing pain, improving functional disability, and correcting scapular dyskinesis in individuals with work-related neck pain.