Accessory Inspiratory Muscles in Chronic Neck Pain

This cross-sectional case-control study aims to investigate the ultrasonographic structural and functional characteristics of accessory inspiratory muscles in individuals with chronic non-specific neck pain and compare them with healthy controls. In addition, the relationships between accessory inspiratory muscle characteristics, diaphragm function, respiratory muscle strength, and pulmonary function parameters will be examined. The findings may improve understanding of the respiratory involvement associated with chronic neck pain and contribute to more comprehensive assessment strategies.

Inclusion Criteria Chronic Non-Specific Neck Pain Group: * Age between 18 and 65 years * Presence of chronic non-specific neck pain for at least 3 months * Non-traumatic origin of neck pain * Pain intensity ≥ 3 on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) or Visual Analog Scale (VAS) * Neck Disability Index (NDI) score ≥ 15 * Willingness to participate and provide informed consent Healthy Control Group: * Age between 18 and 65 years * No neck pain during the previous 3 months * Not receiving any treatment related to the cervical region * Willingness to participate and provide informed consent Exclusion Criteria (Both Groups): * History of whiplash injury or cervical trauma * Previous cervical spine surgery * Cervical radiculopathy or neurological deficits * Chronic respiratory diseases (e.g., COPD, asthma) * Active respiratory tract infection * Thoracic or abdominal surgery within the previous 6 months * Rheumatologic, neuromuscular, or systemic inflammatory disorders * Pregnancy * Physiotherapy treatment for neck pain within the previous 3 months * Regular respiratory muscle training or breathing exercises within the previous 3 months * Inability to comply with study procedures or assessments