Effect of six weeks of dynamic cervical PNF training on neck disability index in men with video display terminal...

Chronic neck pain is increasingly common among digital device users due to prolonged static postures. Evidence is limited regarding interventions targeting both neuromuscular control and proprioception. Cervical Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) with Hold-Relax is hypothesized to enhance neuromuscular control and proprioception, improving muscle relaxation and reducing joint position errors (JPE) through sensory-motor coordination. This study evaluated the effectiveness of six weeks of dynamic cervical PNF training on Neck Disability Index (NDI) in men with VDT syndrome. In this prospective, randomized controlled trial, 30 participants aged 18-25 years with VDT syndrome were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 15) or a control group (n = 15). The primary outcome, functional disability, was measured using the NDI. Secondary outcomes included cervical Range of Motion (ROM), Flexion-Relaxation Ratio (FRR), proprioception assessed via the JPE test, and pain measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Assessments were conducted before and after the six-week intervention using MyoMotion sensors, electromyography (EMG), and a laser-equipped helmet. Data were analyzed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test and independent t-tests. Baseline demographics and outcomes did not differ significantly between groups. After six weeks, the experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in NDI (P < 0.05), ROM (P < 0.05), FRR (P < 0.05), and JPE (P < 0.05), along with a significant reduction in pain (P < 0.05) compared with controls. Six weeks of dynamic cervical PNF training significantly improved NDI, cervical mobility, neuromuscular control, proprioception, and reduced pain in young adults with VDT-related neck disorders. These findings provide novel evidence supporting the use of integrated PNF and proprioceptive exercises as a safe and non-invasive rehabilitation strategy, as well as a foundation for personalized therapeutic programs for digital device users.Trial registration: This study was retrospectively registered at https://irct.behdasht.gov.ir/ with the registration number IRCT20240521061862N2 on 2024/09/26.