Healthc Inform Res.  2020 Jan;26(1):50-60. 10.4258/hir.2020.26.1.50.

Immediate Effects and Acceptability of an Application-Based Stretching Exercise Incorporating Deep Slow Breathing for Neck Pain Self-management

• Thongtipmak S
• Buranruk O
• Eungpinichpong W
• Konharn K

• KMID: 2469400
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4258/hir.2020.26.1.50

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study evaluated the immediate effects and acceptability of a smartphone application named NeckProtector to promote neck pain self-management through stretching incorporating deep slow breathing, among smartphone users with neck pain.
METHODS
One-hundred participants were recruited in the study. Participants were divided into two groups by block randomized allocation. The researchers gave the NeckProtector application to all participants for acceptability testing by navigation of the application for 20-30 minutes. Next, the treatment group (n = 50) conducted the exercise program via smartphone application for 15-20 minutes, while the control group (n = 50) rested for 20 minutes. Evaluations were performed at baseline and after intervention for pain intensity, muscle tension, pressure pain threshold (PPT), and cervical range of motion (CROM). Quantitative and qualitative feedback was then obtained by an acceptability survey and open-ended questionnaires.
RESULTS
The immediate effects showed statistically significant improvements in pain intensity, muscle tension, PPT, and CROM in the treatment group in comparison to the control group. Participants reported a high level of acceptability through ratings on a Likert scale. The qualitative questionnaires received positive responses that the application was easy to use and the exercise program was useful to cope with neck pain.
CONCLUSIONS
NeckProtector can be an alternative treatment for neck pain self-management via smartphone application among smartphone users with neck pain. Further studies should examine the long-term effectiveness (Clinical trials registry: TCTR20160523001).

Keyword

Mobile Applications; Muscle Stretching Exercises; Breathing Exercises; Neck Pain; Self-Management

MeSH Terms

Breathing Exercises
Mobile Applications
Muscle Stretching Exercises
Muscle Tonus
Neck Pain*
Neck*
Pain Threshold
Range of Motion, Articular
Respiration*
Self Care*
Smartphone

Figure

• 

  Figure 1 Home screen of NeckProtector.

• 

  Figure 2 Screenshots of (A) breathing test and (B) breathing pattern setting.

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  Figure 3 Exercise menu consists of three parts: (A) modified visual analog scale, (B) painful areas selection, and (C) description of the exercise postures.

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  Figure 4 Screenshot of exercise sessions.

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  Figure 5 Exercise program consists of five postures: (A) neck lateral flexion, (B) neck flexion with lateral flexion and ipsilateral rotation, (C) neck extension with lateral flexion and contralateral rotation, (D) neck flexion, and (E) trunk twist and neck ipsilateral rotation.

• 

  Figure 6 Screenshots of (A) graphical recording, (B) daily results in calendar format, and (C) information.

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