The effect of cervical stabilization exercise on active joint position sense: A randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Neuromuscular control
• Kinesiology
• Physical therapy

Background:

• Joint position sense (JPS) is crucial for motor control.
• Cervical JPS deficits are linked to neck pain and dysfunction.
• Cervical stabilization exercises aim to improve neck muscle function and proprioception.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of a 5-week cervical stabilization exercise program on active joint position sense in healthy young adults.
• To compare changes in cervical active joint position sense between an exercise group and a control group.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-four healthy young adults were randomized into an exercise group or a control group.
• The exercise group performed specific cervical stabilization exercises for 5 weeks.
• Active joint position sense was assessed using the head repositioning accuracy test for rotation, flexion, and extension.

Main Results:

• A significant positive interaction between time and group was observed for left/right rotation, flexion, and extension.
• The exercise group showed significant improvements in all four measured position senses (p<0.05).
• The control group exhibited no significant changes in the four position senses (p>0.05).

Conclusions:

• Cervical stabilization exercise effectively enhances the accuracy of cervical joint position sense.
• This exercise intervention may be beneficial for improving proprioception in the cervical spine.
• Targeted exercises can lead to measurable improvements in sensorimotor control of the neck.