Comparative Effect of Post-Isometric Relaxation and Dynamic Cupping on Non-Specific Neck and Upper Back Pain

Objectives: To compare the effects of Post-Isometric Relaxation (PIR) and Dynamic Cupping on pain intensity, functional disability, and cervical range of motion in young adults with non-specific neck and upper back pain. Methods: A comparative experimental study was conducted among 60 individuals screened for eligibility, of whom 30 met the inclusion criteria. Participants were randomly allocated by computer-generated randomization into two groups of 15. One group received PIR and the other Dynamic Cupping. Both groups additionally received conventional physiotherapy comprising cervical isometric and stretching exercises. Interventions were administered three times per week for two weeks. Pain intensity, functional disability, and cervical range of motion were assessed before and after intervention using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, Neck Disability Index, and universal goniometer, respectively. Data were analysed using paired- and independent-samples t-tests. Results: Both groups demonstrated statistically significant improvements in pain intensity, functional disability, and cervical range of motion following intervention (p?0.002). No statistically significant differences were observed between the groups for any post-intervention outcome measure (p>0.05). Conclusions: Both PIR and Dynamic Cupping, when provided alongside conventional physiotherapy, were associated with significant improvements in pain intensity, functional disability, and cervical range of motion. No statistically significant between-group differences were observed in any assessed outcome.