An interventional study of Guided Cervical Stretching Regimen in Cervical Spine, sponsored by Western University of Health Sciences. Not yet recruiting at 1 site in United States. Open to participants aged 18 Years and older, including healthy volunteers. Per ClinicalTrials.gov, last updated 2026-02-27.
Sponsored by Western University of Health Sciences · Not applicable, Interventional, and Treatment
Neck pain and reduced cervical range of motion (ROM) are common musculoskeletal concerns that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life and daily routine. This is especially true for medical students who spend a disproportionate amount of time on their computers or mobile devices, as is required by their long study hours. A simple stretching routine is often recommended by physicians and physical therapists alike, but there is little research examining short-term changes in cervical range of motion (ROM) and pain when a brief, structured daily stretching program is used.
The goal of this single-group study is to test feasibility and determine how well a daily cervical stretching regimen affects cervical ROM and self-reported pain in osteopathic medical students with cervical ROM restrictions. Researchers will measure changes in cervical ROM using a goniometer and changes in pain levels via the Visual Analog Scale (VAS).
Participants will be asked to complete a 7-day period of no stretching, during which natural measurements will be taken, followed by 7 days of completing the 5-minute stretching routine, after which more measurements will be taken. Participants will also be asked to complete a post-study survey and a 1-month follow-up survey to provide feedback on the study and the stretching routine.
Exclusion Criteria:
Participants will complete a 5-minute guided cervical stretching routine and will be given a video to follow for 7 consecutive days (Days 8-14), following a 7-day baseline observation period without intervention.
Behavioral: Guided Cervical Stretching Regimen
Participants will perform a standardized 5-minute guided cervical stretching routine once daily for 7 days. The instruction will be delivered via an in-person tutorial on the first day, followed by a pre-recorded instructional video that participants will follow each of the following 6 days. The stretching routine will target cervical flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation movements.
Changes in Cervical Range of Motion (ROM)
Changes in cervical range of motion (ROM) will be analyzed using goniometer measurements in degrees. The measurements of cervical ROM will include flexion, extension, rotation, and lateral flexion. A blinded assessor will conduct assessments to minimize measurement bias.
Time frame: Baseline to Day 7 pre-stretch, to Day 7 post-stretch, to Day 14.
Changes in Visual Analog Scale (VAS)
Changes in pain levels will be measured using the visual analog scale (VAS). This will allow for assessment of subjective pain intensity. The instrument is scored on a scale of 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst pain), with accompanying representative facial expressions.
Time frame: Baseline to Day 7 pre-stretch, to Day 7 post-stretch, to Day 14
Changes in the Neck Disability Index (NDI)
The Neck Disability Index (NDI) will be used to evaluate neck-related disability and quality of life in participants. This survey evaluates the impact of cervical pain and ROM on daily activities. It will be measured on an interval scale of 0 to 50.
Time frame: Baseline to Day 7 pre-stretch, to Day 7 post-stretch, to Day 14
Participant Feedback on the Feasibility/Effectiveness of the Stretching Routine and How Experience Might Influence Their Approach to Patient Care
Participant feedback will be collected through structured post-intervention Qualtrics Surveys designed by the research team to evaluate perceptions of the intervention's effectiveness, feasibility, and clinical applicability
Time frame: Day 14 post-intervention to Day 30 (1-month follow-up)
Adherence Rates to Stretching Regimen
Self-reported adherence rates will be documented through daily compliance diaries and a one-month follow-up survey.
Time frame: Baseline to Day 14 to 1 Month Follow-up
This study is not yet recruiting, as verified in Feb 2026. You cannot join it, but the record below documents what was studied.
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Western University of Health Sciences