Chinese Journal of Rehabilitation Theory and Practice ›› 2026, Vol. 32 ›› Issue (10): 1204-1215.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-9771.2026.10.009

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Effect of proprioceptive stimulation combined with shoulder strength training on cervical function in healthy young males

Liang Yixiong1,2, Huang Qiuchen2, Yu Lili1,2, Ye Miao1,2, Li Jianjun1()   

  1. 1 School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100068, China
    2 The Second Department of Physical Therapy, Beijing Bo'ai Hospital, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing 100068, China
  • Received:2026-08-25 Revised:2026-09-18 Accepted:2026-09-28 Published:2026-10-25 Online:2026-10-23
  • Contact: Li Jianjun E-mail:crrc100@163.com

Abstract:

Objective To investigate the effect of proprioceptive stimulation combined with shoulder strength training on cervical muscle morphology, vertebral artery hemodynamics, proprioception and motor function in healthy young men.

Methods Thirty healthy young men recruited from Beijing Bo'ai Hospital between January, 2022 and June, 2024 were randomly divided into a proprioceptive stimulation (PS) group, a strength training (ST) group and a combined training (CT) group, with ten participants in each group. PS group received proprioceptive stimulation using suspension vibration, ST group received isometric contraction of the right shoulder joint in six directions, and CT group received both interventions concurrently, for four weeks. Before and after intervention, the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the right cervical multifidus, the end diastolic velocity (EDV) and peak systolic velocity (PSV) of the vertebral artery, cervical range of motion (ROM), isometric peak torque (IPT) and cervical joint position error (CJPE) were measured.

Results All 30 subjects completed the study, and no serious adverse events were reported. The time-by-group interaction in CSA was significant (F = 10.183, P = 0.001, partial η2 = 0.430); CSA was higher in CT group than in PS group and ST group (P < 0.05). The time-by-group interactions in EDV and PSV were significant (F > 4.036, P < 0.05, partial η2 > 0.230); PSV was significantly higher in CT group than in PS group and ST group (P < 0.001). The time-by-group interaction in extension ROM was significant (F = 54.277, P < 0.001, partial η2 = 0.801); extension ROM was significantly higher in CT group than in PS group and ST group (P < 0.001). The time-by-group interactions in flexion, extension and lateral flexion IPT were significant (F > 14.251, P < 0.001; partial η2 > 0.514); flexion IPT was higher in CT group than in PS group and ST group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion In healthy young men, proprioceptive stimulation combined with shoulder strength training can improve neck muscle strength, blood flow and motor function.

Key words: proprioception stimulation, strength training, cervical multifidus muscle, motor function

CLC Number: