Abstract

Comparative Study between Supervised and Unsupervised Exercise Program for Cervical Spondylosis

Author(s):Ahmed Abdelmoniem Ibrahim, Ehab Mohamed Kamel Waleed Salah Eldin Mahmoud and Mohamed Raafat Mohamed Atteya

Background: Cervical spondylosis (CS) is a degenerative disease for zygapophysial (facet) joints of the vertebra. Pain, stiffness, and dysfunction are the most common symptoms. Study design: A randomized controlled trial was conducted which included 30 female patients with cervical spondylosis. Objectives: Comparing the effect of dynamic and isometric neck exercise under the supervision and without supervision (home-based). Methods: Total 30 female patients with cervical spondylosis were assigned equally into two groups: Group A (n=15) and Group B (n=15). Neck exercises were performed under the supervision of the physiotherapist for Group A and home-based exercises for Group B, respectively. T-test and paired t-test were used for comparison of the outcome measurements which included pain, neck disability index (NDI) and range of motion (ROM). Results: Patients after 8-weeks of cervical strengthening program (supervised or unsupervised) had a significant reduction in the average cervical pain, dysfunction and improvement of ROM within the group of patients. However, the results of Group A were more significant as compared to Group B for pain reduction, flexion, extension and right rotation ROM, but no difference in other parameters for NDI, right and left lateral flexion as well as left rotation ROM. Conclusion: Supervised exercises have proved to be more effective than unsupervised neck exercises in the treatment of patients with chronic neck pain due to cervical spondylosis in spite of all outcomes has improved within the groups.

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