Immediate Effectiveness of Percussor Massage Therapyon Pain, Cervical Range of Motion in Forward Head Posture among Janitors: Single Arm Clinical Trial

Background: Forward Head Posture (FHP) is increasingly prevalent among janitors due to repetitive physical tasks, often resulting in chronic neck pain and limited cervical mobility. This study evaluates the immediate effectiveness of Percussor Massage Therapy (PMT) in alleviating pain and improving cervical range of motion (ROM) in this high-risk occupational group.  Methodology: An experimental single-arm study was conducted on 12 janitors aged 35–50 years, diagnosed with FHP (craniovertebral angle >49°). Participants underwent a single 15-minute PMT session targeting cervical and upper shoulder muscles. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Neck Pain and Disability Scale (NPAD), and goniometric cervical ROM measurements.  Results: Statistical analysis using paired t-tests revealed significant reductions in pain scores (NPRS: pre 4.82, post 2.27; p < 0.001) and improvements in cervical flexion, extension, and functional scores (NPAD: pre 64.36, post 40.00; p < 0.001).  Conclusion: PMT demonstrated immediate and significant benefits in reducing pain and improving cervical ROM in janitors with FHP. Its non-invasive nature and practicality suggest its utility as an effective ergonomic intervention in occupational settings.