Intra- and inter-rater reliability of the cranio-cervical flexion test in individuals with chronic neck pain

• Grant number: 24/13817-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: October 01, 2024
• End date: September 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy
• Principal Investigator: Luiz Fernando Approbato Selistre
• Grantee: Renan Souza Gutierrez
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde (CCBS). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Neck pain is a condition that commonly and significantly affects quality of life and functionality, being one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. In addition to disability, patients with chronic neck pain often present with muscle weakness. Considering the important role of cervical muscles, it is crucial to evaluate this musculature for proper management during the rehabilitation process. Various methods have been proposed for this evaluation, including the cranio-cervical flexion test (CCFT), or more specifically the performance index (CCFT-PI). The CCFT-PI was developed to measure the activation and endurance of the deep cervical flexors through five progressive stages, guided by a pressure biofeedback device. Previous studies indicate promising results for the reliability of the CCFT in healthy or mixed populations. This study aims to fill this gap by specifically including individuals with chronic neck pain, following recommendations for adequate sample size as per the COSMIN guidelines.