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Neck PainNCT07613879

Mulligan Mobilization and Stabilization Exercises for Sensorimotor Function in Women With Text Neck Syndrome

A study testing Mulligan Mobilization Technique and Spinal Stabilization Exercises in people with Neck Pain and Text Neck Syndrome, run by Pamukkale University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).

Completed

Finished. The study has ended and is not enrolling. Results may be posted on the official record.

Official record
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Trial summary

Text message neck syndrome represents a significant epidemiological and musculoskeletal concern arising from repetitive strain and prolonged cervical flexion during mobile device operation. Read more about this study

Who is it for?
Ages 18 to 30 years, women only
What is being tested?
Mulligan Mobilization Technique and Spinal Stabilization Exercises
Type of treatment
Surgery or procedure
Could I receive a placebo?
No, everyone receives an active treatment
How many people
36 participants
Where
1 siteTurkey (Türkiye)
Study dates
1 Sep 2025to 4 May 2026
Phase
Interventional
Are there results?
None posted in the registry

Key requirements

Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.

  • Ages 18 to 30 years
  • Women only
  • No healthy volunteers
  • Adult

Who may be able to join

  • Female sex.
  • Age between 18_30 years.
  • History of chronic neck pain lasting for at least 3 months.
  • Objective diagnosis of Text Message Neck Syndrome via photographic posture analysis (classified into posture categories 3 or 4).
  • History of smartphone ownership for at least 1 year.
  • Minimum daily smartphone or tablet usage of 1 hour.
  • Neck pain intensity score of 3.5 centimeters or higher on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS).
  • Neck Disability Index (NDI) score of 5 points or higher.

Who cannot join

  • Diagnosis of scoliosis or cervical disc herniation following neurological and radiological examinations.
  • History of prior spinal surgery.
  • Presence of concurrent musculoskeletal pathologies, including shoulder pathologies or thoracic outlet syndrome.
  • Diagnosed psychiatric disorders.
  • History of physical therapy or conservative treatment for neck pain within the past year.
  • Presence of specific spinal or systemic pathologies, such as malignancy, acute fracture, or rheumatic disease.
Show all 9Show fewer
  • Uncorrected visual deficits.
  • Presence of confounding neurological or systemic illnesses.
  • Demonstration of an intervention adherence rate below 80% (completing fewer than 10 out of the 12 scheduled treatment sessions).

Trial locations and contacts

1 site in 1 country.

Turkey (Türkiye)1 site
  • Pamukkale University, Faculty of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation.

    Denizli

Other trials in Turkey (Türkiye)

About this study

Official title: The Effects of Mulligan Mobilization Technique and Stabilization Training on Sensorimotor Function in Women With Text Message Neck Syndrome: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

Text message neck syndrome represents a significant epidemiological and musculoskeletal concern arising from repetitive strain and prolonged cervical flexion during mobile device operation. Anatomical deviations associated with this syndrome, such as anterior head translation and altered lower cervical alignment, substantially increase the gravitational load exerted on the cervical spine. This progressive mechanical overload predisposes individuals to microtraumas, paraspinal muscle imbalances, and secondary proprioceptive impairments. Kinematic variations further heighten the clinical vulnerability of female populations, as distinct sagittal and thoracic parameters accelerate the progression of postural dysfunction.Conventional therapeutic strategies frequently target localized cervical symptoms, often neglecting the broader kinetic chain and the interdependent relationship between the cervical and thoracic segments. To address these limitations, this clinical trial evaluates a holistic "joint-by-joint" rehabilitation framework by incorporating thoracic spine interventions into both active protocols. The Mulligan Mobilization Technique combines passive manual facet joint glides with active physiological movements to restore biomechanical alignment and reduce nociceptive mechanical stress. Conversely, the Spinal Stabilization Training Protocol focuses on neuromuscular control, utilizing a pressure biofeedback unit and progressive resistance to enhance the endurance of deep cervical flexors and stabilize the scapulothoracic region.A major gap in text neck syndrome literature is the reliance on subjective pain scales, leaving the underlying neurobiological mechanisms under-investigated. This study introduces an objective biochemically validated assessment model by quantifying objective biomarkers of neurogenic inflammation, nociception, and central sensitization. By analyzing pre- and post-intervention serum concentrations of Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) and Substance P via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), this trial aims to correlate clinical sensorimotor and postural improvements with neurochemical changes. Ultimately, the findings will clarify whether passive manual joint mobilization or progressive active stabilization exercise provides superior efficacy in restoring sensorimotor function, optimizing postural stability, and mitigating chronic neurogenic pain pathways.

Being tested
Mulligan Mobilization Technique, Spinal Stabilization Exercises
Keywords
Mulligan Mobilization, Spinal Stabilization, Sensorimotor Function, Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide, Substance P, Postural Stability
Medical subject headings
Neck Pain, Cumulative Trauma Disorders

What participants receive

What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.

  • Mulligan Mobilization TechniqueProcedure or surgery

    A targeted manual therapy protocol directed at the cervical and thoracic spine, administered individually for 12 sessions over a 4-week period (3 sessions per week). The intervention combines passive accessory facet joint glides with active physiological movements to restore biomechanical alignment and reduce mechanical nociceptive inputs. The protocol incorporates Natural Apophyseal Glides (NAGs) applied as passive, rhythmic oscillatory glides antero-superiorly along the cervical facet joint planes. This is followed by Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glides (SNAGs) combined with active physiological neck movements and manual end-range overpressure. To comprehensively address the kinetic chain, Reverse Natural Apophyseal Glides (RNAGs) are directed cranio-ventrally along the transverse processes of the T1-T4 and T4-T6 thoracic vertebral segments.

  • Spinal Stabilization ExercisesProcedure or surgery

    A structured, progressive neuromuscular exercise protocol conducted individually for 12 sessions over a 4-week period (3 sessions per week). The protocol focuses on enhancing neuromuscular control, deep muscle coordination, and endurance across the craniocervical and scapulothoracic regions. The intervention consists of three core components: 1) Deep cervical flexor isolation utilizing a pressure biofeedback unit (PBU) placed suboccipitally. Participants perform controlled craniocervical flexion, advancing sequentially from an initial baseline of 20 mmHg up to a terminal threshold of 30 mmHg (in 2 mmHg increments) using real-time visual feedback, ensuring no substitution of superficial muscles. 2) Isometric chin-tuck stabilization exercises performed against a soft mini-pilates ball to optimize paraspinal muscle activation. 3) Scapulothoracic retraction and thoracic spine extension exercises utilizing progressive elastic resistance bands to stabilize the broader kinetic chain.

Study groups in NCT07613879
Study groupRoleWhat they receive
Mulligan Mobilization GroupExperimentalNot described
Receives: Procedure: Mulligan Mobilization Technique
Spinal Stabilization ExercisesExperimentalNot described
Receives: Procedure: Spinal Stabilization Exercises

What is being measured

The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.

  1. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS)

    A validated 10-centimeter scale used to evaluate the intensity of neck pain. The scale is anchored at 0 cm (representing "no pain") and 10 cm (representing the "worst imaginable pain"). Baseline severity is categorized as mild (≤ 3.4 cm), moderate (3.5-7.4 cm), and severe (≥7.5 cm). Higher scores indicate greater pain intensity. This metric serves both as a primary efficacy outcome and an inclusion criterion (≥3.5 cm).

    Measured: Baseline and Post-treatment (4 weeks)

  2. Neck Disability Index (NDI)

    The Turkish version of the Neck Disability Index (NDI), used to assess functional impairment related to neck pain. It comprises 10 items (including pain intensity, personal care, lifting, reading, headaches, concentration, work, driving, sleeping, and recreation). Each item is scored from 0 (no disability) to 5 (most severe disability), yielding a total cumulative score ranging from 0 to 50. Higher scores indicate greater functional impairment, categorized as no disability (0-4), mild (5-14), moderate (15-24), severe (25-34), and complete (≥ 35). The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) is 8.5 to 9.5 points. This scale serves as both a primary outcome and an inclusion criterion (≥ 5 points).

    Measured: Baseline and Post-treatment (4 weeks)

  3. Cervical Range of Motion (CROM)

    Active cervical ROM is assessed across three anatomical planes using the Baseline CROM Deluxe device, which utilizes two gravity-dependent goniometers and a head-mounted compass dial. Measured movements include cervical flexion, extension, right/left lateral flexion, and right/left rotation, recorded in degrees. The arithmetic mean of two consecutive trials for each movement is used for analysis. Higher values indicate greater joint mobility

    Measured: Baseline and Post-treatment (4 weeks)

  4. Cervical Joint Position Sense (JPS)

    Cervical joint position sense (JPS) is evaluated using the Baseline CROM Deluxe device to measure target repositioning accuracy. The target angle for each direction is set at 65% of the participant's mean maximum active ROM. The absolute error between the target angle and the participant's active repositioning attempt is recorded in degrees. Smaller error values indicate superior proprioceptive accuracy and joint position sense.

    Measured: Baseline and Post-treatment (4 weeks)

  5. Postural Stability (Sway Medical Application)

    Static postural stability is assessed using the Sway Medical mobile balance application via a triaxial accelerometer. The protocol involves 5 sequential static standing conditions performed on a firm surface while blindfolded: (1) feet together, (2) tandem stance with left foot forward, (3) tandem stance with right foot forward, (4) single-leg stance on the right, and (5) single-leg stance on the left. Balance scores are derived from deviance acceleration using proprietary algorithms. The application generates a composite score ranging from 0 to 100, where higher scores indicate superior postural control and balance.

    Measured: Baseline and Post-treatment (4 weeks)

  6. Dynamic Balance (Y-Balance Test)

    Dynamic balance is evaluated barefoot using the Y-Balance Test (YBT) in three reach directions: anterior, posterolateral, and posteromedial. Maximum reach distances are recorded after six practice trials and three formal trials per direction. Reach distances are normalized to the participant's leg length (measured from the anterior superior iliac spine to the medial malleolus) and expressed as a percentage (%). A composite score is calculated by averaging the normalized percentages across all three directions, with higher scores representing superior dynamic balance.

    Measured: Baseline and Post-treatment (4 weeks)

  7. Cervical Deep Flexor Muscle Endurance

    sometric endurance of the deep cervical flexor muscles is assessed using the Cervical Deep Flexor Endurance Test. Participants in a supine, hook-lying position execute a craniocervical flexion (chin-tuck) maneuver, elevate their head approximately 2.5 cm off the surface, and maintain this position for as long as possible. The duration is recorded in seconds (s) until termination criteria are met (e.g., loss of alignment, head contact with the surface, acute pain, or participant request). Longer holding times indicate better muscle endurance.

    Measured: Baseline and Post-treatment (4 weeks)

  8. Gaze Stability (Head-Eye Movement Control Test)

    Dynamic head-eye coordination and gaze stability are evaluated using the Head-Eye Movement Control Test. Participants maintain visual fixation on a camera lens during rapid, maximum-range head rotations. Performance is graded on an ordinal 3-point scale: 0 (stable gaze with coordinated movements), 1 (stable gaze with slightly uncoordinated movements), and 2 (recurrent gaze instability with slow, poorly controlled movements). Lower scores represent better gaze stability and motor control.

    Measured: Baseline and Post-treatment (4 weeks)

  9. Sagittal Posture Angles (CVA and CTA)

    Sagittal head and upper thoracic posture are evaluated using digital photogrammetry with retroreflective markers placed on the acoustic tragus, C7 spinous process, and T4 spinous process. Computerized software calculates two biomechanical parameters in degrees: Craniovertebral Angle (CVA): The angle between the horizontal plane at C7 and the line connecting C7 to the acoustic tragus; smaller values indicate greater forward head posture.Cervicothoracic Angle (CTA): The angle between the line connecting the acoustic tragus to C7 and the line connecting C7 to T4, serving as an index of scapular protraction.

    Measured: Baseline and Post-treatment (4 weeks)

  10. Biochemical Marker: Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP)

    Quantification of serum CGRP, a biochemical marker of neurogenic inflammation and nociception. Venous blood samples (5 mL) are collected, coagulated, centrifuged at 3500 rpm for 10 minutes, and stored at -20°C. Quantitative determination is performed via a specific human sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. Optical density is measured at 450 nm. Concentrations are reported in picograms per milliliter (pg/mL), with an analytical detection range of 3 to 200 pg/mL.

    Measured: Baseline and Post-treatment (4 weeks)

  11. Biochemical Marker: Substance P (SP)

    Quantification of serum Substance P (SP) concentration to evaluate neurogenic inflammation. Venous blood processing and storage follow the same standardized centrifugation protocol as CGRP. Quantitative analysis is performed via a specific human sandwich ELISA kit at a controlled temperature of 25°C. Optical density is measured at 450 nm. Results are expressed in picograms per milliliter (pg/mL), with an analytical detection range of 3 to 200 pg/mL.

    Measured: Baseline and Post-treatment (4 weeks)

Timeline

From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.

  1. First posted29 May 2026
  2. Study start1 Sep 2025
  3. Primary completion4 May 2026
  4. Study completion4 May 2026

Resources

More details

For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.

Study design
Study type
Interventional
Phase
Phase N/A
Primary purpose
Treatment
Allocation
Randomised
Intervention model
Parallel groups
Masking
Single blind
Who is masked
Outcomes assessor
Enrolment
36 participants (actual)
IDs, dates and publications
ClinicalTrials.gov ID
NCT07613879
Sponsor's protocol ID
E-60116787-020-734914
Status last verified
May 2026
First submitted
23 May 2026
Last updated
8 Sep 2026
Results posted
No
FDA-regulated drug
No
FDA-regulated device
No
Individual data sharing
Yes

Questions about this trial

What is this clinical trial studying?

A study testing Mulligan Mobilization Technique and Spinal Stabilization Exercises in people with Neck Pain and Text Neck Syndrome, run by Pamukkale University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).

The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.

Who may be eligible to take part?

The sponsor lists 8 inclusion and 9 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.

Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?

The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 8 Sep 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.

Where is the study taking place?

The record lists 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye). Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.

What are the possible benefits and risks?

They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.

Are results available for this study?

The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.

How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?

The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.

What does the primary outcome measure?

Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) (time frame: Baseline and Post-treatment (4 weeks)). The study lists 11 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.

Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?

No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.

How often is this information updated?

AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 8 Sep 2026; AzTrials last refreshed its copy on 31 Oct 2026.

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