Manual Therapy and Exercise for Neck Pain
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
Neck pain is a common issue that can lead to long-term disability and lost work time for many individuals. Despite numerous studies, finding effective treatment strategies has been challenging. One possible reason for this is that treatments may not have been tested on the specific groups of people who would benefit most. A method was developed to identify people with neck pain who are likely to see significant improvements from a manipulation technique used by physical therapists, called cervical spine thrust joint manipulation. The investigators believe that patients identified as likely responders to cervical spine manipulation will show greater improvements in disability. The investigators aim to test whether this method works with different patients and therapists across the country through a multicenter randomized clinical trial. In this study, 140 patients with primary complaints of neck pain will be enrolled from 20 clinical sites. Designed with stringent criteria for inclusion, this study is a testament to our commitment to participant safety and the effectiveness of the treatment. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: (1) one group will receive 2 sessions of cervical spine manipulation followed by 3 sessions of exercise, and (2) the other group will receive 2 sessions of gentle hands-on treatment followed by 3 sessions of exercise. The primary goal is to measure changes in disability 4 weeks after starting treatment, with follow-ups after one week, 4 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months to assess both immediate and long-term effects. By providing crucial data on the reliability of our method in identifying patients who will benefit most from cervical spine manipulation, this study has the potential to significantly enhance decision-making leading to rapid improvement. Results from this study will provide clearer guidelines on the optimal use of cervical spine manipulation, potentially revolutionizing the way patients recover from neck pain.
Who Is on the Research Team?
Jessica T Feda, DSc
Principal Investigator
Baylor University
Emilio J Puentedura, PhD
Principal Investigator
Baylor University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals aged 18 to 70 with neck pain, who have a Neck Disability Index score of at least 10 and a Numeric Pain Rating Scale score of at least 2. It's not specified who can't join the trial.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either cervical spine manipulation or low-grade mobilizations followed by therapeutic exercises
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Cervical Manipulation
- Exercise
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Baylor University
Lead Sponsor
Foundation for Physical Therapy Research
Collaborator