Association of Craniovertebral Angle with Non- Specific Neck Pain and Functional Limitations among IT Professionals

Humaira Kalsoom — 2024-09-30

There was a strong link between workplace ergonomics and occupational diseases. Work-related illnesses contribute significantly to the total burden of occupational diseases. Information Technology (IT) professionals were more likely to experience physical activity limitations and nonspecific neck pain. Objective: To determine the association of craniovertebral angle (CVA) with nonspecific neck pain and functional limitations among IT professionals. Methods: Total 377 IT professionals participated in an observational cross-sectional survey. Non probability convenience sampling technique was used. CVA was evaluated using a manual goniometer, non-specific neck pain was measured using NPRS, and functional limitation was assessed by using the Neck Disability Index (NDI) questionnaire. The association of CVA with non-specific neck as well as functional restrictions was then found. Results: The mean age of this study was 29.43 ± 5.081. About 71.4% were males and 28.6% were females. The results showed that there was significant association of CVA with functional limitation (p value=0.01) and gender (p value =0.05). Also, a significant association was noted between functional limitations and non-specific neck pain (p value =<0.001). Contrastingly, no significant association of CVA observed with non-specific neck pain (p value =0.859) and with BMI (p value =0.721). Conclusions: The study concluded that there was no significant association of CVA with non- specific neck pain but recorded a significant association between CVA and functional limitation among IT professionals. Males were having a higher prevalence of forward head posture as compared to females.

Therapy in Focus: Global Perspectives on Rehabilitation and Healing

Bushra Bashir — 2024-09-30

Historically, healing practices vary widely across different cultures in different countries. From ancient herbal remedies to early forms of physical therapies. With the complexities of modern life, diverse cultures and countries face unique challenges, so it’s essential to share knowledge and best practices globally.

In the 20^th century in formalizing therapeutic approaches significant strides were made. The advent of psychotherapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy created a new era in rehabilitation, scientific inquiry, and evidence-based practice. After this multidisciplinary approach, professionals from different fields began collaborating more closely to address complex health issues. Rehabilitation involves a structural program to help people in a broader way that includes restoring health, regaining skills, disease prevention, treatment, and palliative care. An estimated 1 in 3 people living with a health condition would benefit from rehabilitation [1].

Today, therapies encompass a broad spectrum of practices. Physical therapy improves movement and function through exercise and manual techniques. Occupational therapy helps individuals to develop daily living and working skills. Psychotherapy targets mental health challenges by exploring emotions, behavior, and thoughts.

In many low and middle-income countries, over 50% of the population is left without access to essential rehabilitation services. In Western countries, there is a strong emphasis on evidence-based approaches and specialized care. But now many non-western countries also apply modern therapeutic methods with traditional healing practices. Advancements in the field of technology transformed the field. Digital tools like applications and virtual reality are being increasingly utilized to enhance therapeutic interventions.

Looking ahead, the future of therapy is poised for many transformative changes. The integration of machine learning promises and artificial intelligence, offering personalized treatment plans and improving the outcome predictions. The overall goal of rehabilitation is to help people to get their abilities and regain independence.

In conclusion, therapy's journey from its historical roots to its current form has been marked by advancements in growing global perspectives. Rehabilitation is an important part of health coverage globally. The need to extend the availability of essential rehabilitation is urgent and careful attention needs to be given to the system that delivers rehabilitation services. The ongoing advancement and innovation in the field of technology promise to enhance therapeutic practices and improve lives on a global scale.

THE THERAPIST (Journal of Therapies & Rehabilitation Sciences)

Association of Craniovertebral Angle with Non- Specific Neck Pain and Functional Limitations among IT Professionals

Therapy in Focus: Global Perspectives on Rehabilitation and Healing