HOME EXERCISE AND KINESIO TAPING IN NON-SPECIFIC NECK PAIN AMONG CHAIN MARKET WORKERS

Non-specific neck pain (NSNP) is an important musculoskeletal disorder that may lead to pain, functional limitation, and decreased work performance, especially in occupations with high ergonomic workload. Current literature emphasizes the effectiveness of non-pharmacological approaches and exercise-based interventions in the management of NSNP. However, structured intervention studies focusing on specific occupational groups remain limited.

Female chain market workers are continuously exposed to ergonomic risk factors such as prolonged standing, repetitive upper extremity movements, reaching activities, and static neck postures. These occupational factors may increase mechanical stress on the cervical region and contribute to the development and chronicity of NSNP. Previous studies have highlighted the high prevalence of musculoskeletal pain among workers in the retail and service sectors and emphasized the importance of occupation-specific preventive and therapeutic approaches.

The primary aim of this study is to compare the effects of a home exercise program and kinesio taping combined with home exercise on pain intensity, neck functionality, and work performance in female chain market workers with NSNP. In addition, this study aims to provide evidence-based scientific contributions to occupational health and ergonomics by evaluating non-pharmacological interventions applicable to this occupational group.

This study is designed as a prospective randomized controlled clinical trial. Thirty female chain market workers aged between 18 and 60 years with complaints of NSNP will be included in the study. Participants who have been actively working in chain markets for at least six months and performing tasks such as cashier work or shelf arrangement will be recruited. Participants will be randomly assigned into two groups: Home Exercise Group (n=15) and Kinesio Taping plus Home Exercise Group (n=15).

Participants in the Home Exercise Group will perform a home-based exercise program including stretching, strengthening, and posture/ergonomic training targeting the cervical region. Exercises will be performed once daily, five days per week, for six weeks.

Participants in the Kinesio Taping plus Home Exercise Group will receive the same exercise program in addition to kinesio taping applied to the cervical region. Kinesio tape applications will be renewed three times per week for six weeks.

All participants will be evaluated before the intervention and at the end of the sixth week using standardized outcome measures. Pain intensity will be assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), functionality will be assessed using the Neck Disability Index (NDI), and cervical range of motion will be evaluated using goniometric measurements.

Inclusion criteria

Female chain market workers aged between 18 and 60 years Having complaints of non-specific neck pain Working actively in a chain market for at least 6 months Voluntarily agreeing to participate in the study Able to understand and complete assessment forms

Exclusion criteria

History of cervical surgery Neurological or rheumatologic disease Pregnancy Severe cervical disc herniation Receiving physical therapy during the study period Open wound or skin allergy in the taping are