Effectiveness of McKenzie exercises plus stabilization exercises versus McKenzie exercises alone on disability,pain,and range of motion in patients with nonspecific chronic neck pain: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Chronic nonspecific neck pain is a common disorder that causes disability and reduced quality of life. Effective conservative treatment options are needed to manage this condition.

OBJECTIVE:

This randomized trial compared the efficacy of McKenzie exercises alone versus McKenzie plus cervical and scapulothoracic stabilization training for patients with chronic nonspecific neck pain.

METHODS:

A randomized controlled trial was conducted in an outpatient physical therapy clinic. 76 patients with chronic ( $>$ 3 months) neck pain were randomized to 6 weeks of either McKenzie exercises alone ( $n=$ 38) or McKenzie plus stabilization exercise ( $n=$ 38). The McKenzie protocol included posture correction, range of motion exercises, and lateral neck stretches. The stabilization program added targeted exercises for the neck and scapula.

RESULTS:

The combination of McKenzie plus stabilization exercises resulted in significantly greater reduction in current neck pain intensity compared to McKenzie alone at 6 weeks (mean difference: $-$ 1.2 points on 0–10 scale, 95% CI $-$ 1.8 to $-$ 0.6; $p<$ 0.001). Neck disability improved in both groups. Cervical range of motion also improved more with the addition of stabilization, except for extension.

CONCLUSION:

Adding specific cervical and scapulothoracic stabilization exercises to a standard McKenzie protocol led to clinically meaningful reductions in neck pain compared to McKenzie therapy alone in patients with chronic nonspecific neck pain. This combined approach can improve outcomes.