A Comparative Study of A Novel Postural Garment Versus Exercise for Women with Nonspecific Cervical Pain: A Randomized Cross-Over Trial.

Study design Randomized crossover study. Objective To compare exercise, the gold standard, to the postural garment PosturePlusForce® in the management of nonspecific cervical pain in women. We also analyzed both interventions with regards to baseline posture, use of pharmacological pain relievers, compliance, and comfort. Summary of background data The prevalence of neck pain has increased during the last decade, preferentially affecting women. Those suffering from this condition may manifest a decrease in quality of life and inability to work. Consistent recommendations highlight the importance of exercise and posture for neck pain improvement. Methods A total of 32 female healthcare professionals with cervical pain (≥3 on the visual analogue scale) entered the trial. Participants were allocated to either performing exercises or wearing the postural garment. The crossover between interventions was separated by a 3-month washout period. Primary outcomes included pain intensity and posture. Secondary outcomes comprised cervical pain-related disability, psychological factors, physical activity, global perceived effect of treatment, and garment comfort. Treatment compliance, medication use, and adverse events were also recorded. Results Both interventions showed a significant improvement in pain in subjects with an adherence >60%. However, in participants with dorsal hyperkyphosis (>45°), the garment demonstrated a greater reduction in pain than exercise (p = 0.019). Additionally, those wearing the garment needed fewer pain relievers than those performing exercises (p = 0.007). Compliance was above 50% for both interventions and comfort was contingent on season. Conclusions In our study, PosturePlusForce® showed, at least, a similar effect on pain to exercise, although those with dorsal hyperkyphosis exhibited a greater reduction in pain and related variables with the garment. Pain relievers were less required by those wearing PosturePlusForce® than by those performing the exercises.Level of Evidence: 1.