Efficiency of matrix rhythm therapy on pain, strength, and quality of life in forward neck posture: A randomized controlled trial

Objective: To determine and compare the effects of the Dynamic Exercise Program (DEP) and matrix rhythm therapy (MaRhyThe©) along with conventional physiotherapy in asymptomatic subjects with forward head posture (FHP) on a craniovertebral angle (CVA), strength, pain, and quality of life (QoL) using CVA, pressure biofeedback unit, pain algometer, and short form (SF-36), respectively. Methodology: Sixty-five people were screened for the study, of which 30 were included (18 females and 12 males) who participated in the study. The study participants were randomly allocated to Group A (DEP) or Group B (MaRhyThe©). Preintervention outcome measures used were CVA for the neck position, a craniocervical flexion endurance test for strength, a pain algometer for pain pressure threshold, and SF-36 for QoL. Postintervention outcome measures were recorded on the 6th day after intervention. Results: Data were analyzed descriptively with a priori establishment of success criteria of P < 0.05. Within-group analysis of both groups demonstrated statistically significant parameters of CVA, strength, and pain as P < 0.05. Between groups analysis demonstrated Group B to be statistically significant in all the outcome measures CVA (P < 0.0001), strength (P < 0.0001), and pain (P < 0.0001). SF-36 showed a positive effect on some subdomains as to emotional well-being (0.0320) and pain (0.0047*). Conclusion: It was determined that both deep exercise programs and MaRhyThe© when combined with conventional physiotherapy are effective in treating FHP. However, MaRhyThe© with conventional physiotherapy was found to be superior in reducing pain and improving range of motion, strength, and QoL.