Transverse oscillatory pressure in management of cervical radiculopathy: A randomised controlled study

Background

Cervical radiculopathy is an important subgroup of neck disorders causing severe pain and disability.

Objectives

The study assessed the effect of transverse oscillatory pressure (TOP) on pain intensity and functional disability of patients with cervical radiculopathy.

Methods

Twenty-six individuals with unilateral radiating neck pain were randomly allocated into Group A (8 males and 5 females) and Group B (6 males and 7 females). Participants in the two groups received kneading massage, cryotherapy, and active isometric exercises to the posterior paraspinal muscles, trapezuis, and sternomastoid muscles. TOP was administered to Group A, whereas Group B served as control. Treatment was applied three times per week for 4 weeks, making 12 treatment sessions for each participant. Visual analogue scale and Neck Disability Index were used to assess pain intensity and neck disability, respectively, at baseline, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks. Data were analysed using repeated-measures analysis of variance.

Results

There was a significant improvement in pain intensity and neck functional disability of patients between baseline, 2^nd week, and 4^th week of treatment sessions in Groups A and B (p < 0.05). There was a significant reduction in pain intensity in Group A (f = 7.08, p < 0.05) at the 2^nd week and 4^th week compared with Group B.

Conclusion

It can be concluded that TOP reduces pain faster in patients with cervical radiculopathy.