BACKGROUND: Neck pain is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition that can impact the academic performance and well-being of college students, particularly those in healthcare programs. While both muscle energy technique (MET) and Pilates have shown promise in treating non-specific neck pain, their comparative effectiveness remains unclear. AIMS: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the effects of Pilates and MET on pain, disability, and deep neck flexor strength in physiotherapy students with non-specific neck pain. OBJECTIVES: The objective was to assess the effects of Pilates and MET on pain, disability, and neck flexor strength using the painDETECT Questionnaire and Neck Bournemouth Questionnaire. METHODOLOGY: A total of 32 physiotherapy students were divided into two groups: Group A (Pilates, n = 16) and Group B (MET, n = 16). The painDETECT Questionnaire, Neck Bournemouth Questionnaire, and pressure biofeedback were used to assess pain, disability, and neck flexor strength. Both groups underwent a 3-week intervention, with three sessions per week. RESULTS: Both groups showed significant improvements in pain, disability, and neck flexor strength (p < 0.05). The MET group had a slightly greater reduction in pain (-13.51%) compared to Pilates (-11.27%), while the Pilates group showed marginally better improvement in disability (-48.00% versus-46.53%). CONCLUSION: MET and Pilates are both effective in reducing pain, improving disability, and enhancing deep neck flexor strength in students with non-specific neck pain. Both interventions present viable treatment options for managing neck pain in college students.

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