Comparative Study Of Hot Pack Along With Therapeutic Ultrasound And Exercise Verses Cupping Therapy On Cervical Spondylosis

Abstract

Cervical spondylosis, a prevalent degenerative condition, significantly impacts patients' quality of life by causing pain, stiffness, and restricted cervical mobility. This study investigates the comparative effectiveness of cupping therapy and a combination of hot pack, therapeutic ultrasound, and exercise in alleviating pain and improving cervical range of motion (ROM). Conducted as a pre-test and post-test experimental design, the research involved 30 participants divided into control and experimental groups. The control group received a standard physiotherapy protocol comprising hot pack application, therapeutic ultrasound, and targeted exercises, while the experimental group underwent cupping therapy.

The results demonstrated that cupping therapy provided superior improvements in pain relief and cervical ROM compared to conventional physiotherapy approaches. Specifically, the experimental group showed a more significant reduction in pain intensity, as measured by the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), and a greater increase in cervical ROM in multiple directions. These findings suggest that cupping therapy, through its effects on local circulation, neuromuscular relaxation, and tissue healing, can be an effective alternative or adjunct to conventional physiotherapy.

This study contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting the integration of alternative therapies into mainstream physiotherapy practices for managing musculoskeletal disorders such as cervical spondylosis. However, further research with larger sample sizes and extended follow-up periods is recommended to assess the long-term efficacy and potential mechanisms underlying these observed benefits.