COMPARISON OF MCKENZIE EXERCISES VERSUS COMBINED MCKENZIE AND BRUGGER RELIEF EXERCISES IN INDIVIDUALS WITH TEXT NECK SYNDROME: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

Abstract

Background: Text Neck Syndrome is a rising musculoskeletal condition related to excessive use of smartphones, tablets, and other digital devices, accompanied by prolonged forward head posture and continuous cervical flexion.

Objective: To evaluate and compare the effects of mckenzie exercises and combined mckenzie and brugger Relief Exercises in Individuals with Text Neck Syndrome.

Methodology: Participants were divided into two groups: one receiving McKenzie exercises and the other McKenzie exercises with Brugger’s relief exercises. Results were assessed over a 6-week period, aiming on pain levels and functional ability with the help of goniometer, Numeric pain rating scale (NPRS), Neck Disability Index (NDI) scores. Data was analyzed using SPSS-27.

Results: Mean comparison of NPRS, NDI, and C-AROM between the Combined McKenzie and Brugger Relief Exercises Group and the McKenzie Exercises Group. In the Combined group, NPRS reduced from 7.86 ± 1.149 to 2.48 ± 1.422, while NDI reduced from 78.06 ± 8.66 to 20.89 ± 5.60 (p < 0.05). C-AROM also improved, with cervical extension increasing from 28.33 ± 7.82° to 46.17 ± 3.50° and cervical rotation from 36.56 ± 15.78° to 72.67 ± 5.20°. In the McKenzie group, NPRS decreased from 7.01 ± 1.270 to 5.05 ± 1.376, and NDI decreased from 66.72 ± 13.47 to 42.89 ± 8.51. Cervical flexion increased from 33.78 ± 4.66° to 38.28 ± 5.03°, while cervical rotation increased from 49.78 ± 8.08° to 59.56 ± 3.80°. Conclusion: Overall, both groups showed marked improvement (p < 0.05), but the Combined McKenzie and Brugger Relief Exercises Group showed greater improvement in pain, disability, and cervical ROM.