A randomised controlled trial of multimodal physiotherapy versus advice for recent onset, painful cervical radiculopathy - the PACeR trial protocol.

ABSTRACT:

Background

A research gap exists for optimal management of cervical radiculopathy in the first 12 weeks and short term natural history of the condition is somewhat unclear, although thought to be favourable. The primary aim of this assessor blinded, superiority, 2 parallel group randomised controlled trial is to investigate the effects of a 4 week physiotherapy programme (6-8 sessions) of manual therapy, exercise and upper limb neural unloading tape, compared to a control of weekly phone advice; on disability, pain and selected biopsychosocial measures, in acute and sub-acute cervical radiculopathy patients. A secondary aim is to identify whether any baseline variables, symptom duration or group allocation can predict outcome.

Methods

Participants are recruited from GP refer

SUBMITTER: Keating L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6545204 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature