Exercise-induced Hypoalgesia and Proprioceptive Changes, Comparing Isometric to Isotonic Neck Exercises
This study investigates how different types of neck exercises affect pain relief and body awareness. Researchers will compare isometric exercises (where muscles tighten without moving) to isotonic exercises (where you move through a range of motion with resistance) to see which type is more effective at reducing pain.
Key Objective: The trial aims to determine which type of neck exercise—isometric or isotonic—provides better pain reduction and improved proprioceptive (body position awareness) outcomes.
Who to Consider: People interested in understanding how different exercise approaches affect pain management and those with neck pain or discomfort may benefit from participating in this study.
Trial Parameters
Brief Summary
Exercised induced hypoalgesia (EIH) (reduction in pain) after exercise has been studied in the literature, but no comparisons have been made specifically looking at different types of exercise (isometric/dynamic moving through a range of motion with resistance versus isotonic/applying static resistance to a joint not moving) with neck muscle strengthening. This study will explore to see if one form of exercise is superior to the other in providing EIH. Another benefit of exercise is improving proprioception (knowing where our body is in space). Again no specific investigation has been done comparing isometric versus isotonic exercises for neck muscles. Both of these exercises are often prescribed in physical therapy so further understanding the benefits of them can help improve the prescription of exercises for patients.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 18-64 years old, * all genders, * healthy individuals with no neck pain Exclusion Criteria: * Medical restrictions to physical activity * History of chronic pain (pain \> 3 months) or current acute neck pain * Unable to refrain from alcohol, pain medications, and vigorous exercise 24 hours prior to testing