ABSTRACT

Background: Neck pain is a common musculoskeletal disorder among college students, often linked to prolonged sitting, screen exposure, and poor posture. Evidence suggests hamstring tightness may contribute to cervical dysfunction through myofascial and postural connections. Objective: To compare the immediate effects of hamstring MET versus static stretching on cervical mobility, posture, and pain in college students with neck pain. Methods: Forty-two college students with neck pain were randomly assigned to either a MET group or a static stretching group (n = 21 each). Interventions were applied using standardized hamstring flexibility protocols. Pain was measured with the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), CROM with universal goniometry, and CVA through photographic analysis. Pre- and post-intervention values were analyzed using paired and unpaired t-tests, with significance set at p < 0.005.Results: Both groups showed significant within-group improvements in NPRS, CROM, and CVA (p < 0.001). Between-group comparisons revealed greater benefits in the MET group across all outcomes (p < 0.05). NPRS scores decreased more substantially in the MET group (7.04 to 3.28) than in the stretching group (7.14 to 4.09). MEt also produced superior improvements in cervical flexion, extension, rotation, and CVA, reflecting enhanced posture. Conclusion: Both hamstring interventions reduced pain and improved cervical function, but MET demonstrated greater efficacy. Addressing hamstring tightness may aid cervical dysfunction management, and further research should explore long-term effects. Keywords: Hamstring Tightness, Hamstring MET, Neck Pain, Hamstring Stretching, NPRS, Cervical Range of Motion, Craniovertebral Angle
Publication date: 01/08/2026

https://www.ijbpas.com/pdf/2026/August/MS_IJBPAS_2026_10384.pdf

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https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2026/15.8.10384