Suboccipital Distraction vs. Manual Traction in Chronic Neck Pain

This study addresses the pervasive issue of chronic neck pain, a debilitating condition with profound implications for daily life and well-being. Two therapeutic techniques, suboccipital distraction, and manual traction, are under investigation for their potential to alleviate upper cervical pain and enhance mobility in individuals suffering from chronic neck pain. The primary goal is to compare the effects of these interventions on upper cervical pain, range of motion, and functional disability, providing valuable insights for healthcare professionals to optimize treatment strategies and enhance outcomes in this challenging context. The research adopts a Randomized Clinical Trial (RCT) design to rigorously evaluate the impact of suboccipital distraction and manual traction on upper cervical pain, range of motion, and functional disability in chronic neck pain patients. The Gpower t-test sample size calculation ensures a robust sample size, enhancing statistical power and the validity of findings. Participants will be recruited from Neuro clinic, Lahore, using non-probability convenient sampling. The lottery method will be employed for randomizing participants into suboccipital distraction and manual traction groups, ensuring a balanced distribution of key characteristics. The diverse patient population at Neuro Clinic enhances the generalizability of the study's results. The treatment plan spans 4 weeks, comprising three sessions per week. Each session involves three sets of suboccipital distraction or manual traction, with 5 to 7 repetitions per set. Baseline assessments will be conducted, followed by post-treatment assessments at the 4-week mark. Outcome measures, including standardized pain scales, goniometry for range of motion, and validated instruments for functional disability, will be systematically collected during these intervals.