The influence of physiotherapy and physcal activity on reducing neck disability among dental professionals

Aim of this study is to identify the impacts of physiotherapy program and physical activity on reducing neck pain among dental professionals. Methods applied: according to the Neck Disability Index and criteria, set by the International Headache Society, 36 dentists, with neck pain, were selected. These individuals were split into 3 groups of 12 people. For each group we assessed and calculated: neck range of motion; deep neck muscle strength and endurance; intensity and duration of the headache and neck pain; thoracic spine mobility. After the measurement, a physiotherapy program was selected for one of the groups. The first group had a six – week combined physiotherapy program. In the second group were physically active dentists, who voluntarily agreed to be physically active for 12 weeks (physical activities: tennis, yoga, swimming, fitness et cetera). The third group – control group (no impact for 12 weeks). After six more weeks we measured and assessed all the respondents again. The next six weeks first experimental and control group did not have any impact and the second group continued there selected physical activities. In these six weeks we accomplished our research and repeatedly measured and assessed all the respondents. Results: the study results showed, that after six weeks physiotherapy program or six weeks physical active period, the neck disability index were significantly dropped. No neck disability index changes were reported in the control group. Headache intensity was reduced but no changes were reported about pain frequency in the first experimental group compared at baseline, after 6 weeks treatment and 6 weeks later. Also, no significant pain intensity and frequency reductions were stated in the second experimental and control groups at baseline, after 6 and 12 weeks. After comparing results before and after physiotherapy program, it was found that neck range of motion was significantly better after physiotherapy. Comparing results at baseline, 6 weeks after physical activity, it was found that neck range of motion significantly improved during the entire period. Control group did not improve or decreased range of motion during all the research period. After deep neck muscle strength measures, it was found that after twelve weeks physiotherapy program muscle strength significantly improved in the first experimental group. No significant changes were found in the second experimental and control groups. Endurance of deep neck muscles increased in 8 both experimental groups compared at baseline, after six and twelve weeks. No changes were found in control group. Pain intensity significantly reduced compared at baseline, after six and twelve weeks in the first experimental group. In the second experimental group pain intensity did not reduce when compared baseline and six weeks after physical activities, but significantly reduced when compared to baseline twelve weeks after baseline. No significant changes in thoracic spine mobility were found in all three groups. Conclusions: during the study it was discovered that a physiotherapy program of 12 weeks significantly (p