Effect of strength training in addition to general exercise in the rehabilitation of patients with non-specific neck pain. A randomized clinical trial

83 patients on sick leave due to non-specific neck pain were randomized to either a general physical activity (GPA) routine or a GPA routine with an additional specific strength training (SST) regimen. This was done to compare the effects of different exercise programs on pain, muscle strength, and fear-avoidance belief. A numeric rating scale, a strain gauge system, and the Orebro Musculoskeletal Pain Screening Questionnaire were used to measure outcomes. Results indicated that there was a reduction in pain and an increase in strength in both groups, however there were no significant differences in outcome between groups except that the SST group significantly decreased their fear-avoidance beliefs.