Effects of Transverse Thoracic Mobilization With and Without Lower Trapezius Strengthening Exercises

Mechanical neck pain is a common musculoskeletal problem, worldwide. Patients with neck pain often have subjective complaints of muscle stiffness, tension, or tightness in addition to their pain located between the occiput and the third thoracic vertebra Approximately 68% of the total population has experienced neck pain at least once in their lifetime, and it easily transforms into a chronic state (that persists for more than 3 months). In today's society, this is conspicuous in many laborers due to the increased use of computers, where the neck and shoulders are maintained in static abnormal postures to look at the computer screens and become vulnerable to cause neck pain. The aim of the study is to determine the comparative effects of transverse thoracic mobilization with and without lower trapezius strengthening exercises on pain, disability and range of motion in patients with mechanical neck pain.

Inclusion Criteria:Males and females between the age range of 18-40 years with mechanical neck pain for at least 3months.Examination- Symptoms provoked by neck movement and/or palpation of neck musculature.Trapezius Strength Test -To assess lower trapezius muscle strength, patient in prone with shoulder 120 degree abducted and resist the shoulder extension diagonally.Exclusion Criteria:OsteoporosisTumorsVertebral fracturesDiagnosed psychological disordersNeck pain associated with vertigoHistory of cervical and thoracic spine injuryCervical radiculopathyTraumatic neck injuryShoulder surgery