Effect of McKenzie Technique Combined with Ultrasound Therapy in Mechanical Neck Pain

Abstract Background: McKenzie protocol has been widely advo-cated for management of patients with different spinal condi-tions; although that, its combined effect with ultrasound therapy (US) in patient with Mechanical Neck Pain (MNP) are not fully investigated. Aim of Study: To investigate the effect of McKenzie technique combined with US In patient with MNP. Subjects and Methods: Sixty six patients with MNP aged from 18-40 years were randomly assigned into three groups: Group A (study): 22 patients received McKenzie technique, US and traditional physical therapy, Group B (study): 22 patients received US and traditional physical therapy, Group C (control): 22 patients received the traditional physical therapy only (hot packs and isometric strengthen exercises). Interventions were conducted three times a week for six weeks. Pain intensity was measured by Numeric Rating Scale (NRPS), Cervical ROM was measured by Smartphone Cli-nometer application and neck functional ability was measured by Neck Disability Index (NDI). All outcome measures were assessed for all participants before and after the treatment program. Result: There was no significant difference between groups pre treatment (p>0.05). Within-group comparison revealed a significant improvement in all measured variables in all groups post treatment compared with that pre treatment (p<0.001). Comparison between groups post treatment revealed a signif-icant improvement in all measured variables in group A compared with that of group B and group C (p<0.01), and a significant decrease in NRPS and NDI of group B compared with that of group C (p<0.01). While there was no significant difference in ROM of group B compared with that of group C post treatment (p>0.05). Conclusion: Adding McKenzie technique to US for pa-tients with MNP could provide an additional improvement in neck pain, ROM and functional ability.