A COMPARISON OF BOWEN AND GRASTON TECHNIQUE IN PATIENTS OF TENSION NECK SYNDROME

Abstract

Visual display terminal syndrome (VDTS) is increasingly common, with tension neck syndrome (TNS), characterized by myofascial pain and muscle adhesions causing localized hypoxia, being a prevalent manifestation. This randomized single-blinded trial compared the effects of Graston versus Bowen's soft tissue techniques on pain, cervical range of motion (ROM), and disability in 30 participants (aged 20–45, both genders) with VDTS-induced TNS and device usage >2 hours/day. Excluding those with radiculopathy, malignancy, surgery, or systemic conditions, participants received treatment three times weekly for two weeks, with outcomes assessed via NPRS (pain), NDI (disability), and goniometry (cervical ROM). Mixed ANOVA showed significant time interactions for disability and cervical ROM, but not pain (p<0.05); within-group analysis revealed both techniques equally reduced neck pain, while the Graston group demonstrated markedly greater gains in cervical flexion (mean difference: 10.0°) and disability reduction (mean difference: 9.133). In summary, although both interventions improved pain, function, and mobility in TNS patients, Graston technique proved more effective than Bowen's for enhancing cervical range of motion and reducing functional disability