EFFECTIVENESS OF SENSORIMOTOR TRAINING IN TEXT NECK SYNDROME: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Background: Text neck syndrome associated with prolonged smartphone and digital device use leads to neck pain, altered cervical proprioception, restricted range of motion, balance impairment, and functional disability. Sensorimotor training has emerged as a focused rehabilitation strategy to address these deficits. This systematic review assessed the effectiveness of sensorimotor training in individuals with text neck syndrome. Methods: Randomized controlled trials published between 2018 and 2025 were identified through PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies involving adults with text neck syndrome, forward head posture, or device-related non-specific neck pain were included. Sensorimotor training interventions were compared with conventional physiotherapy or general exercise programs. Outcomes included pain, cervical joint position sense, range of motion, balance, posture, and functional disability. Results: Nine randomized controlled trials involving 419 participants were included. Sensorimotor training demonstrated superior improvements in pain reduction, proprioception, cervical mobility, balance, posture, and functional disability compared to conventional therapy. Conclusions: Moderate-quality evidence supports sensorimotor training as an effective adjunct to conventional physiotherapy in the management of text neck syndrome.