Effect of Kinesiophobia on Cervical Range of Motion Post Physiotherapeutic Pain Management – A Systemic Review

Abstract

Background: Neck pain (NP) refers to discomfort or more severe pain localized in the cervical region. Non-specific NP is characterized by pain affecting the posterior and lateral parts of the neck, spanning from the superior nuchal line to the spinous process of the first thoracic vertebra, without any signs of specific structural pathology or neurological symptoms.

Purpose: This study aims to systematically review randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that assess the effectiveness of interventions targeting kinesiophobia in patients with chronic neck pain.

Data Sources: Relevant RCTs published between January 2015 and January 2025 were identified through searches in EMBASE, PubMed, Medline, PEDRO, and the Cochrane Library. Additionally, manual search methods were employed.

Study Selection: Two independent reviewers assessed the eligibility of studies based on predefined inclusion criteria.

Data Extraction: Reviewers analyzed the quality of the studies and documented their methodologies, designs, interventions, outcomes, and conclusions.

Data Synthesis: A total of ten RCTs met all inclusion criteria.

Limitations: The findings are limited by the diversity of interventions and the small sample sizes of the included studies, highlighting the need for further research.

Conclusions: Physical therapy offers additional benefits, including improving patients' quality of life and reducing kinesiophobia in individuals with chronic neck pain.