| Abstract |
This study evaluated the immediate effects and acceptability of a smartphone application named NeckProtec-tor to promote neck pain self-management through stretching incorporating deep slow breathing, among smartphone users with neck pain. Methods: One-hundred participants were recruited in the study. Participants were divided into two groups by block randomized allocation. The researchers gave the NeckProtector application to all participants for acceptability test-ing by navigation of the application for 20–30 minutes. Next, the treatment group (n = 50) conducted the exercise program via smartphone application for 15–20 minutes, while the control group (n = 50) rested for 20 minutes. Evaluations were performed at baseline and after intervention for pain intensity, muscle tension, pressure pain threshold (PPT), and cervi-cal range of motion (CROM). Quantitative and qualitative feedback was then obtained by an acceptability survey and open-ended questionnaires. Results: The immediate effects showed statistically significant improvements in pain intensity, muscle tension, PPT, and CROM in the treatment group in comparison to the control group. Participants reported a high level of acceptability through ratings on a Likert scale. The qualitative questionnaires received positive responses that the application was easy to use and the exercise program was useful to cope with neck pain. Conclusions: NeckProtector can be an alterna-tive treatment for neck pain self-management via smartphone application among smartphone users with neck pain. Further studies should examine the long-term effectiveness. |
Publication
Journal Publication
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