Efficacy of Baduanjin combined with Tuina for patients with non-specific chronic neck pain: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background: Non-specific chronic neck pain (NCNP) is a prevalent musculoskeletal issue that imposes a significant economic burden due to its high healthcare costs and frequent recurrences. In China, Baduanjin and Tuina are commonly practiced for the treatment of NCNP, yet scientific evidence evaluating their effectiveness remains limited. The objective of this study is to assess the relative effectiveness of Baduanjin combined with Tuina compared to Tuina alone in managing patients with NCNP. Methods/design: A randomized controlled trial in which 82 patients with non-specific chronic neck pain will be recruited and randomly allocated to either the Tuina group or the Baduanjin combined with Tuina group in a 1:1 ratio. The interventions for both groups will be carried out three times a week for 4 weeks. The patients in the two groups will receive follow-up 1 month after the intervention. The primary outcome will be the changes in the visual analog scale (VAS). Secondary outcomes will be measured by the Neck Disability Index (NDI), and Active Range of Motion (AROM). The data will be analyzed at the baseline, 4 weeks during the intervention, at the end of the intervention, and 1 month after the intervention. The significance level sets as 5%. The safety of interventions will be evaluated after each treatment session. Discussion: The aim of this trial is to assess whether the combination of Baduanjin and Tuina is at least as effective as Tuina alone in treating patients with non-specific chronic neck pain (NCNP). This study aims to furnish clinicians and stakeholders with crucial insights into the potential of this complementary and alternative therapy for managing NCNP. Trial registration: ChiCTR registry (ChiCTR)2400083714. Registered on April 30,2024.