An Integrated Cervical Stabilization Exercise and Thai Self-Massage Approach for Managing Chronic Nonspecific Neck Pain in Young Adults: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND

Chronic nonspecific neck pain (CNNP) is a widespread musculoskeletal condition affecting individuals across all age groups. Although cervical stabilization exercises (CSE) and Thai self-massage have each demonstrated therapeutic potential, evidence regarding the effectiveness of the combined applications of CSE and Thai self-massage remains limited. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a combined program of CSE and Thai self-massage (CSTM) on pain intensity (PI), pressure pain threshold (PPT), and neck disability (ND) in young adults with CNNP.

METHODS

This single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted at the Department of Physical Therapy, School of Integrative Medicine, Mae Fah Luang University, Thailand. Fifty young adults with CNNP were randomly assigned into two groups. The CSTM group performed CSE integrated with Thai self-massage, whereas the control group practiced stretching exercises exclusively. Both groups engaged in their respective programs three times per week for a duration of four weeks. PI, PPT, and ND were assessed at baseline, after four weeks (Week 4), and at a two-week follow-up (Week 6).

RESULTS

Both groups showed significant improvements in PI, PPT, and ND (p < 0.05), representing within-group comparisons, at Week 4 and Week 6. Furthermore, between-group comparisons at Week 4 and Week 6 indicated that the CSTM group achieved significantly greater improvements in PI and ND than the control group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

A four-week program combining CSE with Thai self-massage was effective in reducing pain intensity and neck disability in young adults with CNNP, with benefits maintained at short-term follow-up.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR20231102008), registered on 2 November 2023.