Effect of friction massage and post facilitation stretch in relieving symptoms related to upper cross syndrome: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Background: Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS) is a postural dysfunction that often results from prolonged poor posture, associated with neck pain, shoulder discomfort, reduced range of motion, and muscle fatigue, and significantly impacts daily activities and quality of life. Friction massage (FM) and post-facilitation stretch (PFS) are gaining attention for their potential effectiveness in relieving symptoms and improving muscular balance.

Objective: to determine the effectiveness of friction massage and post-facilitation stretch (PFS) in relieving symptoms of the upper cross syndrome (UCS).

Methods: A randomized clinical trial was conducted on n=60 participants of both genders aged 20-50 years, diagnosed cases of upper cross syndrome.  All participants were divided into Group A received friction massage (FM) while Group B received post-facilitation stretch (PFS) in addition to conventional physical therapy (CPT). Each participant received one month of intervention. The data was collected through a visual analog scale (VAS) and neck disability index (NDI) at the baseline, after the 2^nd week, and 4th week.

Results: The mean age of the n=60 participants was 42.23±9.15 years. The results of RM-ANOVA showed significant improvement (p<0.001) in pain intensity and neck disability in both groups at each level of assessment till at the end of 4th week of intervention. While comparing both groups, no significant difference (p≥0.05) was observed between the groups throughout the treatment duration.

Conclusion: The friction massage and PFS were equally effective in improving neck pain and disability in patients with UCS having the distinct mechanism of action, may be overshadowed by Conventional physical therapy.