Predictive Factors for Respiratory Muscle Strength and Function in Chronic Neck Pain

Purpose: This study aimed to determine whether neck function-related variables can predict impaired pulmonary function in individuals with chronic neck pain (CNP). Materials and Methods: Predictive parameters of neck pain were examined in 73 patients (mean age 35.19±10.34) with CNP. Respiratory muscle strength, including maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP), was measured using a mouth pressure device. Spirometry was used to assess forced expiratory volume (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), and peak expiratory flow rate (PEF). Pain intensity, disability, endurance of deep cervical flexors (DCF), neck range of motion (ROM), hand grip strength (HGS), and psychological states were evaluated. Multiple regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of respiratory parameters. Results: ROM and depression levels were common predictors for MIP and MEP. DCF performance significantly predicted MIP, while HGS predicted MEP (R²=0.338). Flexion ROM predicted FEV1, whereas flexion ROM and DCF performance predicted FVC. Neck disability significantly predicted FEV1/FVC and FEF. Flexion and extension ROM with HGS were strong predictors of PEF (R²=0.424). Conclusion: Impairments in local muscle function, neck disability, and psychological conditions in CNP may affect pulmonary function. Clinicians should include respiratory evaluation and appropriate interventions in the management of patients with chronic neck pain.