Published randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of at least one type of exercise intervention in office workers, computer users or visual display unit operators with non-specific neck pain were eligible for inclusion. Trials on neck pain due to serious spinal pathology, systemic disease or other specific causes were excluded.
In most included trials, the participants had non-specific neck pain; in the remaining trials, healthy volunteers and participants with neck pain were included (where specified). Some of the participants had chronic neck pain. The exercise interventions included stretching exercises, strengthening training, and neck endurance exercise. The comparators included no intervention, adjustments of workstations, education, aerobic exercise, deep breathing and health promotion. Outcomes measured were pain and pain intensity, sick leave, disability, pressure pain thresholds, recovery, and duration of pain.
Two reviewers independently performed the study selection.