RESUMO
Background: Neck pain is a common musculoskeletal problem that significantly causes disability. Exercise therapy is effective in decreasing pain and improving the functional ability among patients with neck pain. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of a home-based neck stabilization exercise program in pain and neck disability among female college students with non-specific neck pain (NSNP).Methods: A quasi-experimental study with a single group pre-test post-test was conducted in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. Sixteen participants with NSNP underwent six weeks of training, which included one face-to-face session and 17 sessions of home-based exercise training. The pre-test and post-test values were obtained before and after six training sessions using the Numerical pain rating scale and neck disability index for pain intensity and neck disability, respectively. Results: A significant reduction in neck pain intensity and disability was observed, with a mean difference of 2.88 and 12.4, respectively. The calculated ‘t’ value using the paired ‘t’ test for the numerical pain rating scale was 10.022 (p<0.01), and the neck disability index was 4.934 (p<0.01).Conclusion: Based on the statistical analysis and clinical significance, the present study provides preliminary evidence that a home-based neck stabilization exercise program reduces pain and neck disability among female college students with NSNP.
RESUMO
Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) is a common and often extremely painful musculoskeletal condition. Several non-operative interventions with varying success rates have been described. Systematic reviews suggest that there is no clear and effective cure for pain symptoms in the first six weeks of treatment. There is a strong need for an intervention which is appropriate for patients and ensures effective short-term pain relief without increasing the risk of recurrence. The electrical stimulation using galvanic current is seen to be safe and effective in reducing pain, improving grip strength and promoting functional activities in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis.METHODSFifteen patients with lateral epicondylitis were selected. Electrical stimulation using galvanic current was applied for a period of 30 seconds at each point 3 times for 10 days. Pain, pain-free grip strength and functional status were measured using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), hand dynamometer and Patient Specific Functional Scale (PSFS). Measurements were taken before and after treatment. Data was subjected to statistical analysis.RESULTSMean improvement was observed for pain (NPRS), pain free grip strength and functional status (PSFS) (5.8±0.9, P=0.001), (32.6±2.6, P=0.001) and (5.2±1.7, P=0.001) respectively.CONCLUSIONSApplication of electrical stimulation using galvanic current was effective in reducing pain, improving grip strength and functional status in patients with lateral epicondylitis