Relationship of Deep Cervical Flexor Muscle Endurance With Neck Position Sense and Body Balance

The investigation will be included 2 groups which include 30 individuals with non-specific chronic neck pain and 30 healthy individuals. In evaluation of participants, endurance of deep cervical flexor muscles will be measured using Stabilizer Pressure Biofeedback Unit with cranio-cervical flexion test. Pressure rise which increases from 20 mmHg to 30 mmHg with 2 mmHg increments will be performed in 5 stages. There are 10 seconds contractions at every stage and these contractions will be made 10 times. Endurance will be calculated by the cumulative performance index with the information obtained from this test. Neck position sense of 6-direction (flexion, extension, right-left lateral flexion and right-left rotation) will be measured by CROM device (cervical range of motion device). Joint position error will be calculated by taking the average of the absolute angular difference by 3 trial for each direction. Body balace will be measured by Balance Master System. Modified clinical test of sensory interaction balance (mCTSIB), limits of stability (LOS), rhythmic weight shift (RWS), unilateral stance (US), walk across (WA) and step/quick turn (SQT) will be performed.

Inclusion criteria

• Non-specific chronic neck pain for at least 3 months
• Neck pain is at most 7/10 according to VAS

Exclusion criteria

• Musculoskeletal treatment for neck complaints or balance within the last 3 months
• Musculoskeletal disease that may affect balance
• Spine, upper or lower limb fractures or surgical history
• Diagnosis of vestibular disorder
• Diagnosis of neurological or systemic musculoskeletal disease
• Pregnancy