Neck Pain Can Be a Real "Pain in the Neck"
 By Allison Marsden, PT, DPT, OCS

Cervical spine pain, or neck pain, is a common health problem that affects 10-20% of the general population at any given time.^1,2 Problems in the cervical spine may cause localized pain in the neck or symptoms to radiate into the head, upper back, shoulder, arm, or hand. Neck pain may be caused by trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident, or may be the result of years of faulty posture and abnormal stress on the cervical structures.

Functional limitations associated with neck problems include: limited sitting/driving tolerance, disturbed sleep, limited lifting/carrying ability, painful reaching, decreased tolerance to reading, or restrictions in work, recreational, or social activities.

Of all patients who experience neck pain, 23% will have recurrent episodes, 37% will experience persistent problems greater than 12 months, and 30% will develop chronic symptoms.^1,2,3

1. Avoid slouched sitting, which leads to a forward head posture.

2. Keep neck warm, especially during the winter months, by using a scarf or turtleneck.

3. Avoid keeping the head/neck in one position for a prolonged period of time. Keep the neck moving.

4. Avoid lifting heavy items, especially overhead.

5. Invest in a good pillow that is specific for the position that you most often sleep in.

6. Get involved in a regular exercise program to keep yourself limber and strong.

If you are experiencing pain or any limitation in neck motion during your daily activities, be proactive and seek the appropriate treatment for your condition. Physical therapy is one option that may help you improve motion and function without the need for medication or surgery. Our physical therapists evaluate each patient's range of motion and strength. Based on the evaluation findings, the physical therapist will recommend specific activities to restore and improve your motion to achieve long-term quality of life.

Dr. Allison Marsden is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist who takes special interest in the area of balance and vestibular rehabilitation. If you are experiencing neck pain and would like a physical therapist to evaluate your cervical spine, please call the North Canton Medical Foundation Physical Therapy Department at 330-433-1399.

References

1. Cote P, Cassidy JD, Carroll LJ, Dristman V. The annual incidence and course of neck pain in the general population: a population-based cohort study. Pain. 2004;112:267-273.

2. Bovim G, Shrader H, Sand T. Neck pain in the general population. Spine. 1994;19:1307-1309.

3. Borghouts JA, Koes BW, Bouter LM. The clinical course and prognostic factors of non-specific neck pain: a systematic review. Pain. 1998;77:1-13.