Abstract:

In chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD) patients use extensively supplementary respiratory muscles such as trapezium and scalenes muscles in order to facilitate ventilation. These situations cause pain restricting by the upper body mobility and neck movements. This study was conducted to investigate the presence of neck pain in individuals with COPD and to compare it with healthy individuals. The study included sixty-two patients with COPD(COPD group) and sixty-two healthy volunteer subjects(control group). Visual Analog Scale(VAS) to determine pain intensity were used. Severity of neck disability level and the effects of pain on daily life were evaluated by Neck Disability Index and Nordic Musculoskeletal System Questionnaire. Chest mobility was assessed by circumference measurement. VAS of the COPD group was higher than the control group (p<0.05). While mild disability was found due to neck pain in the COPD group, there was no impairment in the control group (p<0.05). In chest circumference measurements measured from axillary, epigastric and subcostal parts, the COPD group values were found to be statistically lower (p<0.05). Individuals with COPD have neck pain. When these patients rehabilitate, musculoskeletal problems, such as neck pain should be considered.

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