Combined Effects of Motor Control Training and Ergonomic Intervention on Pain, Range of Motion, and Disability in Individuals with Work-Related Neck Pain

Abstract

Background: Work-related neck pain (WRNP) is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder that significantly affects occupational productivity and quality of life. Ergonomic interventions and motor control training have individually shown benefits, but limited evidence exists on their combined efficacy compared with standard physiotherapy. Objective: To compare the efficacy of combining ergonomic interventions and motor control training versus conventional physiotherapy for the functional recovery of individuals with WRNP. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 40 participants (aged 20–50 years) diagnosed with WRNP, divided equally into an ergo-motor group and a control group. The ergo-motor group received ergonomic modifications and motor control exercises, while the control group underwent standard physiotherapy consisting of stretching exercises, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), and ultrasound therapy. Outcomes included the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Neck Disability Index (NDI), Cervical Range of Motion (CROM), and Numeric Global Rating of Change Scale (NGRCS), assessed pre- and post-intervention over eight weeks. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS with paired and independent t-tests, adopting p<0.05 as significant. Results: Both groups exhibited significant reductions in pain and disability scores (p<0.001) and improved CROM across all planes. Between-group differences were statistically insignificant (p>0.05), though the ergo-motor group demonstrated slightly higher improvement in NGRCS, indicating better perceived recovery. Conclusion: Combined ergonomic and motor control interventions were as effective as conventional physiotherapy in alleviating pain and improving cervical function in individuals with WRNP. Integrating ergonomic training into physiotherapy may enhance clinical outcomes and support preventive workplace strategies.