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A CONSERVATIVE APPROACH TO POSTURE RELATED NECK AND SHOULDER PAIN: A CASE STUDY

C Danh
HL Disney

Abstract

Christine Danh, Heather Lynn Disney. University of Saint Augustine for Health Sciences, San Marcos, CA.

Background: Postural related injuries from prolonged periods of sedentary positions may cause muscle and joint imbalances resulting in pain.Postural related impairments such as forward head, rounded shoulders and excessive thoracic kyphosis can occur from prolonged technology use.Posture related neck pain has doubled since the COVID-19 pandemic due to excessive use of virtual communication. Conservative treatments demonstrated promise in the treatment of cervical and shoulder pain. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the benefits of conservative rehabilitation to improve sitting posture, decrease pain, improve function, and improve quality of life in persons with neck and shoulder pain. Case Description/Interventions: A 46-year-old female administrative assistant presented with bilateral neck pain, shoulder pain, and occipital headaches. Twelve sessions occurred over a 10-week period which consisted of self-soft tissue mobilization (STM), joint mobilization, postural related exercises, posture education, electrical stimulation, and a home exercise program. Outcomes: After 12 sessions the individual demonstrated increased cervical range of motion by 15 degrees, alleviated neck and shoulder pain, improved Neck Disability Index score from 15 to 5 disability, increased upper thoracic mobility, and reported improved sleep. Discussion: This study aims to present a conservative approach to decrease posture related neck and shoulder pain. STM improved tissue extensibility prior to cervical and thoracic joint mobilization which is in-line with previous research. Postural related exercises addressed the muscle imbalances: pectoralis muscle tightness, bilateral rhomboid and rotator cuff weakness, and limited cervical and shoulder range of motion. Posture education promoted compliance with home exercise program. Conclusion: Conservative treatment including self-soft tissue mobilization, posture related exercises, and posture education may be an effective approach to treating individuals with neck and shoulder pain.

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