In 2004, a randomized controlled trial conducted by Aslak Savolainen, et. al., the efficacy of two treatment modalities for neck-shoulder pain in occupational health care settings was investigated. The study aimed to compare the effectiveness of thoracic manipulations against instructions for physiotherapeutic exercises in alleviating neck pain.

Seventy-five participants, aged between 30 to 55 years and selected from a pool of 241 employees of the Finnish Broadcasting Company, were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups. The first group received four thoracic manipulations (n = 43), while the second group received instructions for physiotherapeutic exercises (n = 32). Pain levels were assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS, 0-10), and muscle tenderness and tender thoracic levels were evaluated by a blinded investigator at 6- and 12-month follow-ups.

The results revealed a statistically significant difference in self-reported worst pain by VAS at the 12-month follow-up, favoring the thoracic manipulation group.

In conclusion, the study suggests that the natural course of neck-shoulder pain observed was benign, with pain reduction even in the drop-out group. Both treatment modalities were effective at the 12-month follow-up, although the group receiving four manipulations demonstrated a more favorable outcome, particularly during the more intense phase of pain. These findings provide valuable insights into the management of neck-shoulder pain in occupational health care settings.

Reference: Savolainen, A., Ahlberg, J., Nummila, H., & Nissinen, M. (2004). Active or passive treatment for neck–shoulder pain in occupational health care? A randomized controlled trial. Occupational Medicine, 54(6), 422-424.