Comparison of the Immediate Effectiveness of Self-Exercise Methods for Relieving Muscle Tone in the Cervical Region

Purpose This study investigated the comparative immediate effects of selfexercise techniques to reduce muscle tone in the neck region. Method Muscle tone levels were compared before and after exercise in 60 healthy adult men and women. The experimental group performed selfexercise of hold and relax exercise, Mackenzie exercise, and therapeutic massage for a total of 3 minutes each, while the control group maintained a neutral stable posture. Results The hold and relax exercise group, the McKenzie exercise group, and the therapeutic massage group showed a significant decrease in muscle tone and stiffness. Although no significant differences were found in the comparison of the effects between groups, each group and the control group showed significant differences. Conclusion These findings suggest that shortduration selfadministered interventions may be effective for temporarily reducing neck muscle tone, and any of the three methods can be considered as a practical option for immediate muscle relaxation.