Abstract

Motorcycle use in India has surged, making helmets crucial for reducing injury risks. Despite mandatory helmet laws, many riders avoid helmets due to discomfort, particularly neck pain. Research indicates that 69.4% of motorcyclists report neck pain, primarily attributed to the combined weight of the helmet and head, which places excessive mechanical stress on the neck. With an average head weight of 8-12 pounds and helmet weight around 4 pounds, even a healthy neck can be strained during prolonged rides. Poorly fitting helmets exacerbate this, leading to muscle spasms. Specifically, the levator scapulae muscle, which assists in shoulder elevation and neck movement, is often implicated in neck and upper back pain among helmet users. While traditional physiotherapy is commonly applied, it may not fully address the root cause of pain in this group. Few studies have explored the relationship between helmet use and neck pain, emphasizing the need for more targeted research.