International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

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A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 8, Issue 3 (May-June 2026) Submit your research before last 3 days of June to publish your research paper in the issue of May-June.

Combined cervical traction and scapular retraining for mechanical neck pain in cervical spondylosis: a physiotherapy case report

Author(s) Dr. Khushi Saini (PT), Mr. Yashu Sharma, Prof. Dr. Aditi Singh, Dr. Rakhi Kumari (PT)
Country India
Abstract Cervical spondylosis is a common degenerative condition of the cervical spine frequently associated with chronic mechanical neck pain, restricted cervical mobility, muscular tightness, and functional disability (Binder, 2007; Childress & Becker, 2016). Prolonged sitting posture, repetitive computer-based work, poor ergonomics, and reduced physical activity may contribute to altered cervical biomechanics and scapular dysfunction in occupational populations (Szeto et al., 2005). Scapular dyskinesis and weakness of cervicoscapular stabilizers may further increase mechanical stress on cervical structures and perpetuate pain (Kibler & Sciascia, 2010). The purpose of this case report was to evaluate the effectiveness of combined cervical traction and scapular retraining in a middle-aged office worker with cervical spondylosis and mechanical neck pain. A 42-year-old male software engineer presented with chronic neck pain, postural dysfunction, reduced cervical mobility, and difficulty performing prolonged computer work for approximately eight months. Baseline pain intensity measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was 7/10, while Neck Disability Index (NDI) score was 46%. The patient underwent a six-week physiotherapy rehabilitation program consisting of intermittent cervical traction, scapular stabilization exercises, deep cervical flexor training, postural correction exercises, stretching, and progressive strengthening interventions (Blanpied et al., 2017; Jull et al., 2008). Following intervention, pain intensity improved from 7/10 to 2/10, NDI improved from 46% to 12%, cervical flexion improved from 35° to 55°, and cervical rotation improved significantly. Functional improvements were observed in prolonged sitting tolerance, occupational activities, and postural alignment. The findings suggest that combined cervical traction and scapular retraining may effectively improve pain, cervical mobility, postural control, and functional performance in patients with cervical spondylosis and mechanical neck pain.
Keywords Cervical spondylosis, Mechanical neck pain, Cervical traction, Scapular retraining, Scapular stabilization, Deep cervical flexor training, Physiotherapy rehabilitation, Cervical mobility, Neck Disability Index, Postural correction, Forward-head posture, Occupational neck pain, Cervicoscapular dysfunction, Therapeutic exercise, Ergonomic retraining.
Field Medical / Pharmacy
Published In Volume 8, Issue 3, May-June 2026
Published On 2026-05-13

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