The sensorimotor (joint position sense and oculomotor control) and postural stability (balance) disturbances have been demonstrated to be associated with neck pain. Specific therapeutic exercise directed to neuromuscular impairments and manual therapy for the cervical spine are effective interventions for improving dizziness symptoms, neck impairments, functional ability and quality of life. However, the effects of these interventions on the actual impairment of joint position sense and balance remain uncertain. Adaptive changes in the sensorimotor and postural control systems may need to be specifically addressed. Currently, it is not known whether the clinician has to train every impairment or can choose between sensorimotor training and balance training in the rehabilitation of neck pain. Different training approaches may have specific influences on the different outcomes and their outcomes will be important to inform the optimal and efficient management of persons with chronic neck pain.
The sensorimotor disturbance and postural instability have been demonstrated to be associated with neck pain. Specific therapeutic exercise and manual therapy for the cervical spine are effective interventions for improving dizziness symptoms, neck impairments, functional ability and quality of life. However, the effects of these interventions on the actual impairment of joint position sense and balance remain uncertain. Adaptive changes in the sensorimotor and postural control systems may need to be specifically addressed.