Investigation of Lateral Trunk Flexor Muscle Performance in Individuals with Chronic Neck Pain: A Case-Control Study

Purpose: To investigate lateral trunk flexor muscle performance and thoracolumbar mobility in individuals with chronic neck pain (CNP) compared to asymptomatic controls. Material and Methods: This case-control study included 20 participants with CNP and 20 asymptomatic controls. Pain and disability variables of the CNP group were assessed via visual analogue scale (VAS) and neck disability index. Lateral trunk flexor muscle performance was evaluated on endurance, strength, and thoracolumbar rotation range basis using the side-bridge lateral trunk flexor endurance test, hand-held dynamometer, and bubble inclinometer, respectively. Group differences were analyzed using the independent Sample’s t-test. Results: The individuals with CNP reported pain intensity scores of 6.32 at rest and 6.63 during activity, on the VAS. Additionally, their neck disability index value was found to be 45.6%, indicating a moderate disability level. Compared to the asymptomatic controls, the CNP group demonstrated significantly lower lateral trunk flexor endurance, strength, and thoracolumbar rotation, with large effect sizes (p0.71). Conclusion: Individuals with CNP exhibit reduced lateral trunk flexor muscle performance and thoracolumbar mobility compared to asymptomatic individuals. These observations suggest that interventions focused on improving trunk muscle strength and mobility may be advantageous in managing CNP.