Which exercise works better for rounded shoulders and neck pain?
NCT ID NCT07058272
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested two exercise approaches—PNF stretching and a comprehensive corrective exercise program—in 38 adults with upper cross syndrome (a common postural problem causing neck and shoulder pain). The goal was to see which method better reduces pain, improves function, and boosts quality of life. Participants were followed for several weeks, and outcomes were measured using standard pain and disability scales.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) techniques and comprehensive corrective exercise protocol
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could point toward a more effective physical therapy approach for relieving pain and improving function in people with upper cross syndrome.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, completed trial with only 38 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The study does not specify blinding, which could bias outcomes.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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38 people
The number who actually took part.
- Started
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May 2025
- Finished
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Jul 2025
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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25 to 65 years
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Accepted
You do not need to have the condition being studied to take part.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Age : 25-65 * Symptoms of upper cross syndrome appeared from maximum 6 months * Occiput to wall test positive * Patients presenting postural changes e.g: severe kyphosis Exclusion Criteria: * Any apparent misalignment in the pelvis or lower limbs. * Rotation exceeding 5 degrees during forward bending as a result of scoliosis. * Prior history of joint disorders in the spine, shoulders, and pelvis. * Body weight that falls outside the normal range (BMI between 18 and 25)
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Al-Raee Hospital
Gujranwala, Punjab Province, Pakistan
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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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