Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Assessment of the Clinical Efficacy of the Combination of Acupressure and "Three Methods of Neck Movement (TCM)" Therapy in the Treatment of Cervical Spondylosis: A Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Neck-type cervical spondylopathy (NTCS), a common degenerative disorder affecting the spine, poses challenges for patients and society. Research has demonstrated the effectiveness of traditional tuina techniques in treating NTCS, although some limitations still exist. Our study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of combining regular massage techniques with three methods of neck movement (TCM) therapy for managing NTCS, utilizing musculoskeletal ultrasound measurements.

Patients and methods: In this study, 70 eligible patients with non-traumatic cervical spondylosis will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either the experimental group, which will receive Tuina combined with a three-method neck movement treatment, or the control group, which will receive standard Tui Na manipulation. All participants will receive treatment for four weeks. Assessments will be conducted using musculoskeletal ultrasound, the McGill Pain Scale, and the Neck Disability Index (NDI) at three-time points: before treatment, at the end of treatment, and after 12 and 16 weeks of treatment.

Conclusion: This paper investigates the utility of musculoskeletal ultrasound as a tool for evaluating the therapeutic efficacy of an integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) strategy in alleviating pain and enhancing functional outcomes for patients with NTCS. The objective is to present a clinically viable and long-term treatment option.

Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2300072648. Registered on June 20, 2023.