A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Cervical Range of Motion Between Video‐Guided Stretching Exercise and Standard Method in Post‐Operative Neck Dissection Patients

Background Advanced head and neck and thyroid cancers often involve cervical lymph nodes and require neck dissection, causing pain and reduced neck/shoulder mobility. We developed a video‐guided neck exercise to maintain mobility and improve quality of life (QOL). Methods Patients who underwent neck dissection (August 1, 2022–November 1, 2023) were randomized into groups using video‐guided exercise ( n = 21) or printed leaflets ( n = 19). Cervical range of motion (CROM) and QOL were measured before surgery. Exercise started on postoperative day 7, and follow‐up was conducted at weeks 2 and 12. Results Of the 40 participants, 36 completed the study (18/group). At week 2, both groups showed reduced CROM without between‐group differences. By week 12, the video group improved in flexion and extension, whereas the leaflet group decreased ( p = 0.01 and p = 0.04, respectively). Other motions and QOL were unchanged. Conclusions We recommend video‐guided neck exercise for patients undergoing neck dissection, with specialist‐supervised training to ensure proper technique and improve clinical outcomes.