The Effectiveness of Cervical Sensorimotor Control Training for the Management of Chronic Neck Pain Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of cervical sensorimotor control training for the management of chronic neck pain (NP) disorders compared to no treatment, or other conservative or non-conservative treatments. The review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022381714). A comprehensive database search was performed (until November 2023) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and clinical trials evaluating the effects of cervical sensorimotor control training on several subjective and objective outcomes in adults with chronic NP (traumatic or non-traumatic origin). Data on study and patient characteristics, outcome measures, and effects on primary and secondary outcomes were extracted. Seven RCTs (409 participants) were included, of which 6 qualified for meta-analysis. Low-certainty evidence suggests that cervical sensorimotor control training is more effective for reducing pain (standardized mean difference (SMD): 0.48; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.07 to 0.89) and improving cervicocephalic kinesthesia at short term than no treatment, and for reducing kinesiophobia at intermediate term compared to other treatment modalities. No significant between-group differences were found for other outcomes and follow-ups (very low-to-moderate-certainty evidence). Considering the significant improvements in cervicocephalic kinesthesia, cervical sensorimotor control training could be an important element in the rehabilitation of patients with chronic NP disorders. However, the current evidence in the literature is scarce to draw conclusions regarding its effectiveness as a stand-alone rehabilitation program.