Kronik Boyun Ağrılı ve Asemptomatik Bireylerde Fonksiyonel Görevler Sırasında Kas Aktivasyonunun Emg Analizi ile İncelenmesi

Abstract

This study aimed to compare the activation levels of the Upper, Middle, and Lower Trapezius and Sternocleidomastoid muscles during functional tasks between asymptomatic individuals and those with chronic neck pain. The study was conducted with 27 individuals with chronic neck pain and 25 asymptomatic individuals, matched for age and gender. Pain intensity in individuals with chronic neck pain was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale, while disability levels were evaluated with the Neck Disability Index. Participants’ functional capacity levels were measured using the WorkWell Systems Functional Capacity Evaluation Test. During the assessment, all participants performed five upper extremity tasks based on the WorkWell Systems protocol. Muscle activations of the Upper, Middle, and Lower Trapezius and Sternocleidomastoid muscles were bilaterally measured using surface electromyography (sEMG) during these tasks and calculated as a percentage of the maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC). A comparison of functional capacity and muscle activation measurements revealed that individuals with chronic neck pain demonstrated lower functional performance and higher muscle activation levels compared to asymptomatic individuals (p<0.05). Increased muscle activation levels in both dominant and non-dominant extremities were found to contribute to load distribution imbalances (p<0.05). The study results indicate that muscle activation varies depending on the task in individuals with chronic neck pain, emphasizing the importance of incorporating task-oriented exercises resembling daily activities into the rehabilitation process. Moreover, it is recommended to prioritize exercises targeting postural stability and muscle balance, particularly to balance the high activation in the upper trapezius muscle and reduce compensatory loading. Additionally, it is suggested that a comprehensive assessment of functional capacity is necessary to develop an effective rehabilitation program tailored to individual needs.