Introduction
The neck (cervical spine) is composed of 7 bones (vertebrae), running from the base of the skull to the upper body. The bony vertebrae along with the ligaments provide stability to the spine. The muscles allow for support and motion.
The neck has a significant amount of movement and supports the weight of the head. Also, being less protected than the rest of the spine, the neck can be vulnerable to injury and disorders that produce pain and restrict motion.
Symptoms

Acute pain in the neck area can be acute, which comes on suddenly and intensely

Chronic, which can last for weeks, months, or even years.

Pain can be continuous or intermittent

Head aches, pains in the scalp, face or ears

Dizziness, pressure behind the eyes, fainting

Radiation of pain down to the arms, causing numbness or pins and needles of the hands

As neck muscles tense, they shorten limiting the movement of the neck. And as you move your head less, the muscles get shorter & shorter.

Neck and rest of back are so closely related structurally, a person who suffers with problems in one area could possibly, eventually suffer with problems in the other.

CAUSES:
Neck pain may result from abnormalities in the soft tissues - the muscles, ligaments, and nerves - as well as in bones and joints of the spine. The most common causes of neck pain are soft tissue abnormalities due to injury or prolonged wear and tear. In rare cases, infection or tumors may cause neck pain.

Poor Posture - Ligaments are over-stretched, muscles become tired and the neck joints and nerves are put under pressure. Long hours in front of the computer, sleeping with your head in an awkward position, or working with your head down for long periods all tend to cause or worsen neck pain.

Degenerative and inflammatory diseases – like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis canresult in stiffness and pain of the neck.

Disc degeneration - The disc between the vertebrae acts as a shock absorber between the bones in the neck. In disc degeneration the gelatin-like disc loses its elasticity and the space between the vertebrae narrows. This adds stress to the joints of the spine, causing further wear and tear. The disc may also protrude and cause pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots when the rim of the disc weakens. This is known as a herniated cervical disc.

Injury – With the increased mobility and weight of the head resting on it, the neck is extremely vulnerable to injury. Motor vehicle accidents, contact sports, and falls may result in neck injury. A rear vehicle collision may result in extreme backward and forward motion, also known as whiplash. Most common injuries are to the soft tissues, i.e. muscles and ligaments. Severe injury can result in fracture or dislocation of the neck, and can even cause paralysis (quadriplegia).

PHYSIOTHERAPY
Treatment commences initially with pain alleviation and gradually incorporates back strengthening program.

Spinal Decompression therapy (DTS/DOC): Causes a distraction force between spinal vertebrae, to reduce pain and stiffness.
Mobilization & manual therapy: Significant effect to restore restricted mobility between the spinal vertebrae. This aids to reduce pain, muscle spasm and stiffness.
Interferential therapy: Electrical current that stimulates the peripheral sensory and muscle nerve fibers to reduce pain and inflammation.
Ultrasound: The application of ultrasonic waves to reduce pain and swelling.
Heat: Can be in form of shortwave diathermy and moist heat. To aid reducing pain and muscle spasm.
Laser: This low-level laser therapy absorbed by the photo-sensitive body tissue aids in pain management and helps with wound healing.
Exercise therapy: Includes muscle stretches and strengthening program for the neck and shoulder, to improve overall stability and control. This may involve use of biofeedback stabilizer and resistive exercise band.
Postural assessment: Correction and advice.
Ergonomics tips and advice: For work desk setup and neck care.
SCORES back and neck care program: Please check the brochure on SCORES.

Useful Advice
POSTURE: Think tall; chest lifted, shoulders relaxed, chin tucked in and head level. Your neck straight and relaxed. Observe your posture in standing and sitting.
SLEEPING: Use a good pillow that supports your neck well. Avoid sleeping on your stomach.
WORK: Avoid working with your head down or to one side for long periods. Frequently stretch and change position.

Experienced physiotherapists in Singapore, with over 18 years of experience, help you to get relief from pain/weakness quickly and easily. You can book an appointment to see our Senior Physiotherapist. We are located right in the heart of Singapore, at Orchard, and are available Mondays through Saturday.