Published Paper Details:

BACKGROUND: Mechanical neck pain is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition that affects daily functioning and quality of life. Physical therapy interventions such as the McKenzie technique and deep transverse friction massage (DTFM) are commonly employed, yet their comparative effectiveness remains unclear. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of the McKenzie Technique and Deep Transverse Friction Massage (DTFM) combined with conventional therapy in reducing mechanical neck pain.. METHODS: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 40 participants diagnosed with mechanical neck pain. Participants were randomly assigned into two groups: Group A received the McKenzie technique along with conventional therapy, while Group B received DTFM with the same conventional therapy. Treatment was administered over eight weeks. Outcome measures included the numeric pain rating scale (NPRS) for pain intensity, Fuctional rating scale(FRI) for functional status, and WHO QOL BREF, recorded at baseline, mid and post-intervention. RESULT: Both groups showed significant improvements in pain and functional status post-intervention (p < 0.05). However, Group B (DTFM) demonstrated greater reduction in NPRS and FRI scores compared to Group A (MCKENZIE), with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). WHO-QOL Bref improved in both groups, but the DTFM group showed more notable gains. CONCLUSION: The Study concluded that the DTFM technique combined with conventional therapy is more effective than Mckenzie technique with conventional therapy in managing mechanical neck pain. It should be considered a preferable approach for reducing pain and disability in clinical practice.