The Correlation Between Cervical Proprioception and Scapular Dyskinesis in Patients With Neck Pain: A Case-Control Study

Introduction Neck pain is common among office workers, and the assessment of cervical proprioception and scapular dyskinesis is key in the management of patients with neck pain. While some studies have shown the relevance of both factors in neck pain patients, the correlation between the two parameters has not yet been investigated. Hence, this study aimed to determine the correlation between cervical proprioception and scapular dyskinesis in workplace computer users without neck pain (control group) versus those with neck pain (case group). Methodology A case-control, correlational study was performed within office settings; based on the selection criteria, 88 participants were included and categorized into two groups consisting of 44 workplace computer users without neck pain in the control group (Group A) and 44 workplace computer users with neck pain in the case group (Group B). Cervical proprioception was evaluated by using the joint position error (JPE) test and scapular dyskinesis was assessed using the modified lateral scapular slide test (MLSST). Results There was a statistically significant difference in cervical proprioception and scapular dyskinesis between the case and control groups (p<0.001). Workplace computer users with neck pain showed greater JPE compared to those without neck pain, and scapular dyskinesis was observed in the case group. Moreover, Spearman's correlation coefficient showed a significant correlation between cervical proprioception and scapular dyskinesis in workplace computer users with neck pain. Conclusions The present study provides guidance on the assessment as well as management of JPE with different positions of scapular dyskinesia. The evaluation of scapular dyskinesis is frequent clinically; given its positive correlation, managing JPE in neck pain patients is feasible.