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Completed

NCT Number: NCT07387016

Self-Mobilization With SNAGs Vs. DIE on CMNP in Computer Professionals

The goal of this clinical trial was to find out whether a self-applied neck mobilization technique (called self-SNAGs) or neck strengthening exercises (dynamic isometric exercises) works better to reduce pain and improve daily function in computer professionals aged 25-45 years who had long-lasting mechanical neck pain.

The main questions it aimed to answer were:

* Does self-SNAG treatment reduce neck pain more than strengthening exercises? * Does self-SNAG treatment improve neck-related daily activities more than strengthening exercises?

Researchers compared self-SNAG exercises with dynamic isometric neck exercises to see which approach led to greater pain relief and better function over six weeks.

Participants were asked to:

* Perform either self-SNAG neck movements using a towel or neck-strengthening exercises using elastic bands. * Do the exercises five days per week for six weeks. * Follow ergonomic advice for proper posture during computer work. * Complete pain and disability questionnaires before and after the program.

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Key information

Conditions

Chronic Mechanical Neck Pain

Age range

25 year–45 year

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Prakash Institute of Physiotherapy Rehabililation and Allied Medical Sciences

Greater Noida, Utter Pradesh, 201315, India

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: No

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

  • Participants' ages ranged from 25 to 45 years.
  • Having chronic mechanical neck pain persisting for at least 3 months.
  • Computer users of at least 4 to 5 hours daily for greater than 3 years.
  • Understand and be able to perform the indicated exercises well.
  • Cooperation in the study with voluntary participation.

Exclusion criteria

  • Prior history of musculoskeletal neck disorders, trauma, fracture, inflammation, malignancy, active infection, any neurological disorders or deficits, and any spinal surgeries.
  • Acute mechanical neck pain
  • Non-cooperation in the study,

Treatment and study plan

Self-applied Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glides

Other

Participants in the Self-SNAG Group performed self-administered cervical SNAG mobilizations using a towel following initial physiotherapist instruction to ensure correct technique. Movements included cervical extension, bilateral rotation, and bilateral lateral flexion. The towel edge was placed beneath the targeted vertebral level to apply a sustained glide while participants actively moved through the available range, with brief end-range overpressure before returning to neutral. Each movement was repeated 6-10 times per session.

Other names: Self-applied SNAGs

Dynamic Isometric Exercise

Other

Participants in the DIE Group performed dynamic isometric exercises using elastic resistance bands, including resisted flexion, extension, and lateral flexion. The band was secured around the head and anchored to a stable surface while participants maintained upright posture and controlled cervical alignment. The head was displaced approximately 10 cm against resistance and slowly returned to the starting position. Each session comprised 2-3 sets of 10-15 repetitions per movement, with instruction to prevent compensatory motions.

Other names: DIE

Conventional Adjuncts

Other

All participants of both groups received a standard ergonomic education and postural advice program, which included guidance on neutral spine alignment, workstation optimization, and the incorporation of regular movement breaks during computer work to minimize cervical strain.

Primary outcomes

  1. Pain Intensity

    Time frame: 6 weeks

    Pain intensity was assessed using a reliable and valid Visual Analog Scale, marked with 0 and 10 at either end, indicating no pain and unbearable pain, respectively.

  2. Functional Disability

    Time frame: 6 weeks

    Participants' functional disability was measured using the reliable and validated Neck Disability Index (NDI), with total scores ranging from 0 (no disability) to 50 (severe disability).

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

King Saud University

Other

Collaborators

  • PIPRAMS, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradseh, India

Registry information

Official study title

Self-Mobilization With Self-Applied Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glides Versus Dynamic Isometric Exercises for Chronic Mechanical Neck Pain in Computer Professionals: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Important dates

Study start
2021
Primary completion
2021
Study completion
2021
First posted
Feb 4, 2026
Registry last updated
Feb 6, 2026

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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