Comparing Physical Therapy Interventions on Craniovertebral Angle (CVA) in Cervical Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS)

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) and radiculopathy are prevalent musculoskeletal conditions that afflict a substantial portion of the population, causing significant discomfort and impairments in daily functioning. Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is characterized by localized muscle pain, trigger points, and referred pain, often accompanied by stiffness and restricted range of motion. Radiculopathy, on the other hand, involves dysfunction or compression of spinal nerve roots, resulting in symptoms such as radiating pain, numbness, and weakness along the affected nerve pathway. Both conditions can profoundly impact an individual's quality of life, leading to limitations in activities of daily living, work-related tasks, and recreational activities.

A common feature shared by individuals with Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) and radiculopathy is the presence of postural abnormalities and balance impairments. The craniovertebral angle, which reflects the relationship between the head and neck, is often compromised in these individuals due to muscle imbalances, pain-related guarding, and structural changes in the spine. The alteration in the craniovertebral angle can exacerbate symptoms, contribute to muscle tension, and impede proper biomechanical function, further exacerbating the overall discomfort and functional limitations experienced by affected individuals.

The clinical examination of individuals with cervical spine disorders routinely encompasses assessment of posture, mobility, strength, and neuromuscular function. Among these, forward head posture (FHP)-characterized by anterior displacement of the head relative to the trunk-has been recognized as a key contributor to cervical dysfunction, neck pain, and related impairments. FHP is frequently implicated in a wide spectrum of musculoskeletal and neurological concerns, including temporomandibular disorders, headaches, visual disturbances, tinnitus, and altered electromyographic activity of craniofacial muscles, all of which can reduce sleep quality and daily function.

Anatomically, FHP involves extension of the upper cervical segments (C1-C3) and flexion of the lower cervical and upper thoracic segments, resulting in altered biomechanics and increased stress on the cervical musculature and joint. In addition, increased thoracic kyphosis is often associated with or predictive of FHP.

The craniovertebral angle (CVA), defined between a horizontal line through C7 and a line from C7 to the tragus of the ear, remains one of the most clinically accessible and valid quantitative indicators of FHP. A lower CVA represents a more pronounced forward head position, while higher angles reflect better postural alignment.

Despite these validated tools, there is limited research validating newer software platforms like MicroDiCom-commonly used in medical imaging-which may offer improved calibration, workflow integration, or measurement consistency. Each platform's unique interface and processing methodology necessitate separate psychometric evaluation.

Various physiotherapy modalities, including dry needling, manual mobilization and soft tissue release, trigger point therapy, stretching, cupping therapy, and electrotherapy, have been utilized in clinical practice, but their relative efficacy in improving the craniovertebral angle and alleviating symptoms in individuals with Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS)and radiculopathy has not been comprehensively compared.

Myofascial pain syndrome is often diagnosed in neuro-Musculo-skeletal pain patients with active Myofascial Trigger Points (MTrPs). The literature proposes many myo-fascial trigger point therapy procedures. There is a lack of credible evidence about inter and intra-efficacy among various therapy methods. One high-quality and two low-quality studies showed that conventional ultrasonography does not cure cervical and upper back myofascial trigger point pain better than placebo or no treatment. Magnet therapy may be a beneficial treatment, but more high-quality research is needed. Manual therapy trials imply that these therapies can be useful, however medium to long-term efficacy or effect more than placebo cannot be determined. Many neck region myofascial trigger point pain therapies lack proof. The variability of the included studies suggests that future high-quality trials could impact this review's conclusions. Future research must also examine perpetuating and contributory factors and the clinical efficacy of various treatment strategies.

Therefore, this research study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of these physiotherapy treatments on the craniovertebral angle in individuals diagnosed with MPS and radiculopathy. By evaluating the effects of different treatment modalities on posture, balance, pain levels, and overall quality of life, this study seeks to provide valuable insights into the optimal management of these challenging conditions.

Understanding the underlying mechanisms and comparative effectiveness of various physiotherapy interventions is essential for guiding evidence-based clinical decision-making and optimizing treatment outcomes for individuals with MPS and radiculopathy. By elucidating the effects of different treatment modalities on the craniovertebral angle and associated outcomes, this research endeavor aims to contribute to the development of more tailored and effective physiotherapy approaches for improving the well-being of individuals affected by these debilitating musculoskeletal conditions.

while there is evidence supporting the use of various physiotherapy interventions for managing pain and improving function in individuals with Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) and radiculopathy, there is a paucity of research specifically comparative analysis of these interventions to find the most effective one as well as evaluating their effects on the craniovertebral angle. Addressing this gap in the literature is essential for developing more targeted and effective treatment approaches tailored to the unique needs of individuals with these conditions. The present study aims to fill this gap by conducting a comparative analysis of different physiotherapy treatments and their effects on the craniovertebral angle, pain levels, functional ability, and quality of life in individuals with MPS and radiculopathy.

Rationale:

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) and radiculopathy present complex challenges in clinical management, causing localized muscle pain, trigger points, and neurological deficits. These conditions severely impact daily functioning and quality of life, often manifesting in postural abnormalities and balance impairments. The craniovertebral angle, reflecting head-neck relationship, is frequently affected, leading to increased muscle tension and reduced mobility. Physiotherapy is pivotal in managing these conditions, yet the optimal approach targeting the craniovertebral angle remains unclear due to insufficient research. This study aims to compare various physiotherapy treatments (e.g., dry needling, manual mobilization) to improve the craniovertebral angle and alleviate symptoms. By understanding treatment effectiveness, healthcare providers can tailor interventions, ultimately improving care for MPS and radiculopathy patients. This research seeks to elucidate treatment mechanisms, guide clinical decisions, and enhance overall well-being for this challenging patient population

OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

Principal Objective:

To assess and compare the effects of different physiotherapy modalities, including dry needling, manual mobilization and soft tissue release, trigger point therapy, stretching, cupping therapy, and electrotherapy, on the craniovertebral angle and quality of life in individuals diagnosed with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) and radiculopathy.

Specific Objectives:

• To compare improvements in pain levels, functional ability, and overall quality of life among the different treatment groups.
• To evaluate effects of different physiotherapy interventions on range of motion.
• To evaluate the effects of different physiotherapy interventions on craniovertebral angle.
• To evaluate the effects of different physiotherapy interventions on balance.
• To evaluate effects of different physiotherapy interventions on quality of life.
• To evaluate effects of different physiotherapy interventions on myofascial trigger points.

Research Question:

I. Which is the most effective physiotherapy intervention to treat abnormal craniovertebral angle in patients with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) and radiculopathy? II. Which physiotherapy intervention can bring optimal improvements in pain levels, functional ability, and overall quality of life among patients with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) and radiculopathy? III. What is the effectiveness of different physiotherapy interventions regarding pain in patients with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) and radiculopathy? IV. What is the effectiveness of different physiotherapy interventions in improving craniovertebral angle in patients with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) and radiculopathy? V. What is the effectiveness of different physiotherapy interventions in improving balance in patients with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) and radiculopathy? VI. What is the effectiveness of different physiotherapy interventions for improving range of motion in patients with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) and radiculopathy? VII. What are the effects of different physiotherapy interventions on quality of life among patients with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) and radiculopathy?

Conceptual Framework of Study:

With the purpose of evaluating and contrasting the effects of various physiotherapy techniques on persons who have been diagnosed with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) and cervical radiculopathy, this research study aims to conduct an investigation. This study will include a total of one hundred participants, and it will be divided into four unique treatment groups, which are as follows: In Group A, dry needling and myofascial release will be administered, in Group B, trigger point therapy and stretching will be performed, in Group C, mobilisation grade-1 and grade-2 will be performed in conjunction with cupping therapy, and in Group D, the control group, electrotherapy (TENS and ultrasound) will be administered in conjunction with stretching and range of motion exercises. It is the primary purpose of this study to assess the efficacy of the various physiotherapy methods with regard to the craniovertebral angle (CVA) and the overall quality of life. One of the specific goals is to evaluate the effects of the therapies on range of motion, balance, and myofascial trigger points. Other specific objectives include comparing the levels of pain, functional ability, and quality of life that have improved among the treatment groups. The various physiotherapy techniques that were utilized in this investigation are the independent factors. The dependent variables, on the other hand, consist of pain levels, functional capacity, quality of life, range of motion, craniovertebral angle, balance, and the existence of myofascial trigger points. A randomized controlled trial methodology will be utilized for the research project. This methodology will comprise the utilization of pre-, mid-, and post-intervention assessments to evaluate the dependent variables. Additionally, proper statistical analysis will be utilized to compare the outcomes across the different groups. In the end, the purpose of this research is to provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of various physiotherapy modalities for the management of myofascial pain syndrome and cervical radiculopathy, as well as their effects on the craniovertebral angle (CVA). These findings have the potential to guide clinical practice and improve patient care.

Inclusion criteria

• Age: Participants must be between 20 and 40 years old.
• Gender: Both genders, Male and Female have equal chance of selection as participant in the study.
• Diagnosis: Participants must have a confirmed diagnosis of myofascial pain syndrome (MPS), altered cervical posture, restricted range of motion of cervical spine due to muscular spasm etc, altered craniovertebral angle, pain in cervical region or upper extremity and/or radiculopathy by a qualified healthcare professional, based on standardized diagnostic criteria (e.g., clinical examination, imaging studies).
• Severity: Participants should have mild to moderate symptoms of MPS and/or radiculopathy, as determined by the assessing healthcare provider.
• Willingness to Participate: Participants must be willing and able to comply physically and mentally with the study procedures, including attending scheduled physiotherapy sessions and completing outcome assessments.
• Informed Consent: Participants will have to provide written informed consent mendatorily to be selected as participant in the study after receiving detailed information about the study aims, procedures, potential risks, and benefits.

Exclusion criteria

• Severe Comorbidities: Participants with severe comorbidities or medical conditions that may interfere with their ability to participate in the study or confound the interpretation of results will be excluded. C1, C2 compression… vertigo
• Surgeries: Participants who have undergone surgeries in the cervical or head region in past will be excluded due to potential confounding effects on outcomes.
• Pregnancy: Pregnant individuals will be excluded from the study due to the potential risks associated with certain physiotherapy modalities and the need for specialized considerations in this population.
• Contraindications: Participants with contraindications to specific physiotherapy modalities included in the study protocol (e.g., contraindications to dry needling, electrotherapy) will be excluded to ensure participant safety.
• Inability to Attend Sessions: Participants who are unable to attend scheduled physiotherapy sessions due to logistical constraints (e.g., transportation issues, scheduling conflicts) will be excluded.
• Cognitive Impairment: Participants with significant cognitive impairment or communication difficulties that may impede their ability to understand and follow study instructions will be excluded.
• Participation in Other Research: Participants who are currently participating in other research studies involving treatment interventions for MPS and/or radiculopathy will be excluded to avoid potential confounding effects on outcomes and treatment adherence.
• Malignancies: participants suffering from any kind of malignancies will be excluded from the study.
• Trauma: Participants having a history of trauma and fractures in head and neck region will also be excluded from the study.