This randomized controlled clinical trial is designed to investigate the effects of neuromuscular taping on pain, functional outcomes, and health-related quality of life in climacteric women with non-specific chronic cervical pain. The study compares two different neuromuscular taping applications ("Y-strip" and "star-shape") with a no-intervention control group.
Eligible participants will be women aged 45-65 years with non-specific cervical pain lasting more than three months, presenting mechanical pain characteristics and without clinical signs of specific pathology. After screening and baseline assessment, participants will be randomly allocated to one of the three study groups using a computer-generated randomization sequence with allocation concealment via sealed opaque envelopes.
Interventions will be applied to the cervicodorsal region, centered at the C7 vertebra, by an experienced physiotherapist following standardized protocols. The "Y-strip" technique will target the posterior cervical extensor muscles with directional and cross-taping components, while the "star-shape" technique will consist of four I-strips applied in a radial configuration over the cervicodorsal region. Tape will be replaced every 7 days during a 3-week intervention period. Participants in the control group will continue their usual daily activities without intervention.
Outcome measures will be assessed at five time points: baseline, week 1, week 2, week 3, and one-week post-intervention follow-up (week 4). The primary outcome is cervical pain intensity measured using an 11-point Numerical Rating Scale. Secondary outcomes include pressure pain threshold (measured in cervical and suboccipital muscles using algometry), cranio-cervical angle (assessed in seated and standing positions), neck disability (Neck Disability Index), pain perception (McGill Pain Questionnaire), body satisfaction and self-perception, and health-related quality of life (SF-8 Health Survey).
Pressure pain threshold data will be obtained through three repeated measurements per site and averaged for analysis, including a composite bilateral muscle score. The SF-8 will provide physical and mental component summaries of health status.
The study will employ a blinded outcome assessor, intention-to-treat analysis, and standardized measurement procedures. Participants will be blinded to group allocation, and medication use will not be restricted, although it will be recorded throughout the study period.
This trial aims to provide high-quality evidence regarding the clinical effectiveness of neuromuscular taping as a conservative intervention for chronic non-specific cervical pain and to determine whether different taping configurations produce differential therapeutic effects.
