Efficacy of pressure-biofeedback guided deep cervical flexor training on neck pain and muscle performance in visual display terminal operators

Purpose: This randomized trial study compared the efficacy of pressure-biofeedback guided deep cervical flexor training as an adjunct with conventional exercise on pain and muscle performance in visually displayed terminal operators. Methods: A total of 50 (22 men and 28 women) patients with neck pain participated in the study. Patients were randomly placed into two groups: a biofeedback group (n = 25) and a control group (n = 25). The biofeedback group received pressure-biofeedback guided deep cervical flexor training program for 5 days a week for 6 weeks, whereas the control group received an exercise program only. Results: On intergroup comparisons, the deep cervical flexor performance in biofeedback group, at the end of 6th week was significantly higher than those of control group (p < 0.01). Pain intensity was also significantly reduced in biofeedback group when compared to control group at the end of trial (p < 0.004). Conclusion: The addition of pressure-biofeedback to a 6-week conventional program appeared to increase deep cervical flexor muscle performance, compared to the exercise program alone for people with reduced muscle performance.