Abstract
Purpose: This systematic review synthesizes current evidence on the efficacy of major postural rehabilitation techniques for chronic neck pain. Method: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and PEDro databases up to May 2024. Randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews investigating posture-focused interventions for adults with non-specific chronic neck pain were included. Results: Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria. Findings indicate that all techniques are effective, but each excels in distinct domains. Neck-specific exercises provided the most significant reduction in pain intensity (up to 58%) and functional disability. Global Postural Re-education (GPR) demonstrated superiority in improving objective measures of postural alignment. Pilates was most effective for addressing psychological factors, showing a 51% reduction in kinesiophobia. Patient education and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) provided essential supportive roles. Conclusions: GPR, neck-specific exercises, and Pilates are complementary components of a comprehensive postural rehabilitation strategy. Clinical decision-making should be guided by patient-specific impairments. Recommendations: Future research should prioritize integrated protocols and personalized intervention matching.
Recommended Citation
Arman Y. Postural Rehabilitation in the Management of Chronic Neck Pain: A Comprehensive Literature Review. The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. 2026 Jun 01;24(2), Article 12.
