Comparison of low-level laser therapy and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation for chronic non-specific neck pain: A randomized controlled trial

Background/ObjectivesNon-specific chronic neck pain (NCNP) is a common musculoskeletal disorder associated with pain, disability, and reduced quality of life. The aim of this study was to comparatively evaluate the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) on pain severity, pressure pain threshold (PPT), and functionality in individuals diagnosed with NCNP.MethodsIn a three-arm, single-blind randomized controlled trial, 75 participants were randomized. Participants were divided into LLLT (n = 25), PNF (n = 24), and control (n = 26) groups. Conventional treatment was applied in all groups. The primary outcome measure was the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), which assessed pain severity, and the secondary outcome measures were PPT and functionality assessed by the Bournemouth Neck Pain Questionnaire (BNQ). Assessments were performed at the beginning of treatment and at the end of 10 sessions.ResultsSignificant improvements were observed in both the LLLT (p < 0.001) and PNF (p < 0.001) groups compared to the control group in both the primary outcome measure NRS and the secondary outcome measures PPT and BNQ, in both pre- and post-treatment change scores.ConclusionImprovements in pain, pain threshold, and functionality were observed in both the LLLT and PNF groups compared to the control group in NCNP treatment. Neither active treatment method was superior to the other. LLLT and PNF, as non-invasive treatment methods, may be effective and reliable treatment methods for improving pain severity, pain threshold, and functionality in NCNP.