Effect of Myofascial Release and Soft Tissue Mobilization versus Interferential Therapy with Exercises on Neck Musculoskeletal Related Syndromes: A Before and After Study.

Abstract

Background: Neck-related musculoskeletal disorders are classified among the top disabling conditions leading to discomfort, pain and functional restrictions which impact people's functions and performance.

Aim: To assess the effects of soft tissue mobilization versus interferential therapy with exercises among adults with neck musculoskeletal syndromes.

Materials and methods: Thirty-two (32) participants in this study were randomly allocated to two groups. Experimental (n=16) received myofascial release and soft tissue mobilization. Control (n=16) received interferential therapy with conventional neck exercises for 6 weeks. Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) Scores and Neck Disability Index (NDI) were used to measure the effect of the treatment interventions.

Results: The findings from this intervention study showed a significant improvement in pain and disability. Unpaired (independent) t-test on NPRS and NDI scores between groups (NPRS t-test: -3.693 p=0.001) and (NDI t-test: -8.472, p=0.001) thus, favoring Myofascial release and soft tissue mobilization compared to IFT and exercises.

Conclusion: Myofascial release and soft tissue mobilisation treatment provided greater benefits in terms of reduction of functional limitations and pain. IFT and exercise therapy showed improvement suggesting that a combination of both treatment approaches may yield better results than single treatment modality alone.