Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glides Effect on Scalenus Anterior Muscles Electromyograph Activity in Subjects with Neck Pain

Abstract

Background: Neck pain is one of the most prevalent, disabling, and costly musculoskeletal disorders, affecting individuals across all age groups. Its prevalence is estimated to range between 30% and 50% in the general population, with a higher incidence reported among women. A primary contributing factor to neck pain is the sustained being in incorrect postures over extended periods as forward head posture(FHP).

Purpose: The purpose was to investigate the effect of sustained natural apophyseal glides technique on the electromyographic activity of accessory respiratory muscles specifically the scalenus anterior muscles.

Methods: Twenty eight subjects were recruited for this research from the Outpatient clinics of Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University. Subjects   received 3 sessions per week for one month. Electromyography(EMG) was assessed before and after 4 weeks of study. All participants received three sessions/ week for four weeks.

Results: There was significant improvement in electromyography of scalenus anterior muscles and neck pain following treatment.

Conclusion: Adding of mulligan SNAGs technique to traditional physical therapy program has a significant effect in improvement of neck pain, function and accessory respiratory muscle function.