Contextual Factors-Enriched Standard Care on Mechanical Neck Pain

Standard Care includes exercises, mobilization, manual therapy, education, and Neck Wellness Home Care Guide (NWHCG). The rehabilitation program is based on current clinical practice guidelines aimed at reducing neck pain, improving range of motion, enhancing functionality, and promoting physical activity motivation. Each patient will receive active exercises and manual therapy techniques. Educational components will cover pain science, physical activity benefits, and return to normal activities , supplemented by a NWHCG. Treatment sessions will be conducted, featuring a one-to-one interaction between the participant and the physiotherapist. It will last 4 weeks, with two sessions per week, 45 minutes/session (8 treatment sessions).

Bundle of contextual factors divided into three categories: professional, treatment, and healthcare setting features. Regarding the professional contextual factors, they include reputation, appearance, and positive attitudes. The treatment contextual factors encompass positive attitudes, verbal communication, non-verbal communication, empathetic therapeutic alliance, therapeutic touch, and the use of a mirror to show the patient what is being performed. Finally, the healthcare setting contextual factors feature a comfortable setting, adequate environmental conditions, and appropriate design.