Effects of Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercises on Pain, Grip Strength, and Anthropometric Measures in Women With Chronic Nonspecific Neck Pain

Chronic nonspecific neck pain may affect the mechanical loading of the cervical region and trunk stabilization. Diaphragmatic breathing exercises may contribute to postural control and trunk stabilization in addition to their role in breathing. This randomized controlled study investigated the effects of adding diaphragmatic breathing exercises to posture and core stabilization exercises on pain, grip strength, and anthropometric measurements in women with chronic nonspecific neck pain. Forty women aged 18-60 years with chronic nonspecific neck pain lasting at least three months participated in the study. Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group or a control group, with 20 participants in each group. Both groups performed posture and core stabilization exercises twice weekly for eight weeks. The intervention group additionally performed 10 minutes of diaphragmatic breathing exercises during each session. Pain intensity, right and left hand grip strength, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, and waist-to-height ratio were assessed before and after the exercise program. Pain was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale, grip strength using a hydraulic hand dynamometer, and anthropometric measurements according to International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry standards. The results showed that adding diaphragmatic breathing exercises may provide additional benefits, particularly in reducing activity-related pain in women with chronic nonspecific neck pain.