Authors (including presenting author) :
Wong HL (1), Tang WS (1), Man CHJ (1), Leung YH (1), Yan FP (1)
Affiliation :
(1) Physiotherapy Department, Yan Chai Hospital
Introduction :
Neck pain and cervical radiculopathy are among the most common conditions referred to physiotherapy services. While patients with non-acute musculoskeletal conditions often face long waiting times for initial appointments, chronic neck pain significantly impacts daily life through limited mobility, sleep disruption, and emotional distress, ultimately reducing quality of life. This Structured Neck Exercise Program provides fast-track, early physiotherapy intervention with exercises and self-management strategies. The structured program facilitates triage and red flag screening, while incorporating Tele-exercise classes to ensure continuity of care and patient empowerment.
Objectives :
To evaluate the effectiveness and efficacy of structured neck exercise program and tele-exercise class
Methodology :
Patients diagnosed with non-acute cervical-related conditions, including cervicogenic pain and cervical radiculopathy, were recruited into the program. The initial appointment consisted of a screening session for patient triage and red flag assessment, during which basic neck exercises were introduced for self-management. Patients were then allocated to either individual treatment sessions or group exercise classes. The individual treatment pathway comprised 6-8 sessions including electrotherapy, acupuncture, neck traction, and therapeutic exercises. Alternatively, the exercise class pathway consisted of 4 one-hour comprehensive and structured sessions focusing on pain relief, postural correction, and self-management strategies. Supplementary tele-exercise classes were implemented to encourage home-based exercise continuation and patient empowerment. Outcome measures including Numeric Global Rate of Change Scale (NGRCS), Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), and Northwick Park Neck Pain Questionnaire (NPQ) were assessed pre- and post-program participation. Total attendance of tele-exercise classes, patient satisfaction, and potential complications were also monitored.
Result & Outcome :
Between November 2023 and January 2025, 429 patients were recruited and completed the program. Clinical outcomes demonstrated significant improvements, with a mean NGCRS score of 4.78. NPRS decreased from a pre-treatment mean of 5.38 to 3.64 post-treatment. Similarly, NPQ scores improved from 42.6 to 30.7. The tele-exercise component recorded 118 attendances, with participants reporting high satisfaction levels and clear, detailed service delivery. Overall, the program proved effective in reducing cervical symptoms, enhancing quality of life, and achieving satisfactory patient empowerment outcomes.
