Abstract

Background: Non-specific neck pain is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder among physiotherapists, particularly associated with prolonged static postures and manual therapy techniques. Objectives: To assess non-specific neck pain and its correlation with cervical mobility, core strength, posture, functional performance, and scapular asymmetry in practicing physiotherapists. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 113 physiotherapists (100 females, 13 males) with minimum 3 years of experience and current neck pain were recruited through purposive sampling. Assessments included cervical range of motion (universal goniometer), core strength (pressure biofeedback), craniovertebral angle (MBRuler 5.0 Software), scapular symmetry (Lateral Scapular Slide test), pain intensity (Numerical Pain Rating Scale), and functional performance (Neck Disability Index). Results: Significant correlations were found between pain intensity and functional disability (r=0.385, p<0.001), cervical core strength (r=-0.219, p=0.020), and right lateral flexion (r=-0.69, p=-0.82). Most participants (51.3%) reported acute episodes of chronic neck pain, predominantly intermittent (70.8%), with prolonged static positioning (56.6%) as the primary risk factor. Conclusions: Non-specific neck pain in physiotherapists demonstrates significant associations with reduced cervical core strength and functional performance. Pain intensity negatively correlates with cervical range of motion, particularly right lateral flexion, suggesting the need for preventive strategies and postural awareness in clinical practice.

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