The effect of cranio-cervical flexion training and rest breaks on neck pain and functional performance in visual display unit users

Sustained sitting posture is attributed to the high prevalence of neck pain in office workers with computer-based tasks. Purpose: To investigate the effect of cranio-cervical flexion training (CCFT) and supplemental rest breaks on the ability of Visual Display Unit (VDU) users on the accuracy of work. 24 computer users randomly assigned into 2 groups ("A" control & "B" study). Both groups received a lecture on proper posture during work, assessment and modification of workstation set up but only group "B" received CCFT and supplementary rest breaks daily for of six weeks. Pain intensity, functional neck disability, and work habitual posture were measured and compare between before and after intervention using Visual Analogue Scale, Neck Disability Index, and Digital Imaging for Postural Assessment method (DIPA), respectively. Both groups showed intergroup difference in all the measured parameters, except for Gaze angle in group A showed non-significant difference. Between group comparisons showed significant difference in VAS and CCFT in favor of group B. For neck angles there was significant difference in favor of group B except for neck flexion and Gaze angles and same was noted in Neck Disability Index. The study revealed that 6 weeks of repeated micro rest breaks and deep cervical training improves cervical angles and deep flexors strength thus enhance neck postural control. This exercise could be used as preventive measure against the development of neck dysfunctions in risk population.