Comparison of the immediate effects of cervical manipulation and foam roller applications in individuals with non-specific neck pain

Introduction
Non-specific neck pain is a diagnosis that usually describes neck pain of postural and mechanical origin. This study aims to reveal the immediate effects of the application of cervical region manual therapy in patients with non-specific neck pain and to compare the effectiveness of different applications of manual therapy.

Material and methods
115 patients with non-specific neck pain, were randomly divided into a manipulation/mobilization treatment group (n = 58) and a myofascial release treatment group (n = 57). A blinded assessor evaluated patients after a single application session. Before and immediately after the treatment session, the pain level was measured with the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), spinal alignment with a scoliometer, finger grip strength with a pinchmeter, and grip strength with a Jamar hand dynamometer.

Results
Improvements were observed in all participants after the therapy. There was a statistically significant difference in the VAS (p = 0.00) right (p = 0.001) and left (p = 0.002) pinchmeter and scoliometer (p = 0.009) measurements of the individuals in the manipulation/mobilization group. A statistically significant difference was also found in the VAS (p = 0.00), Jamar right hand (p = 0.00) and scoliometer measurements (p = 0.00) of those in the myofascial treatment group. When both groups were compared, an improvement in the pinchmeter measurements was observed only in the manipulation/mobilization therapy group.

Conclusions
A single session of myofascial release and manipulation/mobilization therapy has an immediate positive effects on pain, finger grip strength, spine alignment and grip strength. Manual therapy practices can be used for rapid symptom relief in patients with nonspecific neck pain.