WORLD JOURNAL OF ADVANCE
HEALTHCARE RESEARCH

Thirulogachandar Gunasekar (MPT -Sports)*, Shivaranjani Balamurugan (MPT -OBG), Ajees Fathima A. (BPT), Saraswathi K. (MPT -Cardio), Rajeshwari V. (MPT -Ortho)

ABSTRACT

Cervical discomfort that lasts for at least a day and may radiate to one or both limbs is the hallmark of neck pain. A decrease in quality of life and a higher risk of functional disability are associated with neck pain in adults. Extended study sessions and prolonged sitting are common contributing factors, especially when combined with bad posture like leaning forward. This study investigated the efficacy of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilisation (IASTM) with manual myofascial release (MMR) in treating young people's neck pain. Fifty (50) student participants, ages 18 to 23, participated in an experimental study conducted at Chennai's ACS Medical College and Hospital. Information on demographics, anthropometry, and the Numerical Pain Rating was among the data gathered. Scale (NPRS) scores and Neck Bournemouth Questionnaire (NBQ) scores were analysed using SPSS version 27. The average age of participants was 20.8 ± 1.39 years. Post-test NPRS mean scores were 3.15 ± 0.99 for Group A (MMR, p = .000***) and 2.8 ± 0.70 for Group B (IASTM, p = .000***). Post-test NBQ scores were 40.34 ± 4.28 for Group A (p = .000***) and 37.69 ± 15.41 for Group B (p = .000***). The results indicate that both interventions significantly improved range of motion and reduced pain over 12 weeks. However, participants who received instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilisation experienced greater improvement compared to those who underwent manual myofascial release.