1. Patients in the emphasized exercise group performed exercises emphasizing the deep cervical extensor muscles applying a resistance at the level of the vertebral arch of C4 either therapeutically with the therapist's fingers or as a home exercise with the aid of a towel or belt. These exercises were performed in sitting and standing in front of a table propped up on both forearms. In the latter position, a dynamic exercise was added moving the head from maximal flexion to maximal extension keeping the gaze fixed at an object lying between both elbows hoping to activate more the extensors in the lower cervical spine.