The Effectiveness of Remote Exercise Training to an Individual with Chronic Neck Pain: A Case Report

Neck pain is a very common problem that creates a socio-economic burden. One of the most common causes of neck pain is disc herniation and often causes the pain to become chronic. Factors such as poor posture, long working hours, and psychological stress exacerbate the symptoms related to the cervical region. Surgical nurses are also at high risk for neck pain. Also, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, many patients, especially healthcare professionals, cannot access physiotherapy and rehabilitation services both due to their busy work and to reduce the risk of contamination. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the effectiveness of remote spinal stabilization exercises in a patient with chronic neck pain. Pain, disability, kinesophobia, grip strength, and quality of life of a 26-year-old female patient who was an operating room nurse were evaluated. Architectural features of the muscles were evaluated by ultrasonography. 3 days a week, 5 weeks of distance exercise training was given. As a result, it was observed that pain, kinesiophobia, and disability levels decreased, quality of life and grip strength increased in this case. M. Longus Colli thickness was found to be increased. Also, the patient stated that her symptoms were reduced and she was less tired at work. This study is the first to provide remote exercise training for a surgical nurse with chronic neck pain. It is thought that the results of this study will shed light on more comprehensive studies on surgical nurses.