Effectiveness of Pilates Versus Yoga in Patients with Chronic Mechanical Neck Pain: A Comparative Study

Background: The neck pain comes from multifactorial origin and affects approximately 70% of individuals at some point in their lives being considered a frequent problem of disability. Pilates has been widely used physical conditioning method that improves posture and develop body sense. Although the neck pain symptoms are common within the population, no study has investigated the effectiveness of the Pilates method as a possible treatment for neck pain. The aim this study is to assess the effectiveness of the Pilates and Yoga method on pain, function and quality of life in patients with chronic mechanical neck pain. Methodology: Thirty patients diagnosed with chronic mechanical neck pain were randomly assigned to receive Pilates exercises (group A) and Yoga exercises (group B). Outcome measures such as numerical pain rating scale and neck disability index was taken to assess pain and functional status respectively. The exercise program lasted for 3 weeks. Results: Neck disability index decreases significantly in the Pilates group {standard deviation (SD)13.66 vs. week 3(SD)12.16, and (p value less than0.001)} and the Yoga groups {(SD)7.65 vs week 3 (SD)6.61, and p value (less than0.001)}. Pain ratings also improved significantly and low numbers needed to treat were found. There were no differences in outcomes between the exercise groups or associated adverse effects (p value of group A vs. group B is 0.56). Conclusion: Pilates and Yoga group exercise interventions with appropriate modifications and supervision were safe and equally effective for decreasing disability and pain compared with the control group for individuals with chronic neck pain. Physiotherapy may consider including these approaches in a plan of care.