Pathophysiology
Many muscles attach to the neck and provide support to the head as well as enabling us to move in a variety of directions. Pain is often felt in the trapezius muscles, particularly the upper fibres which run from the base of the head and across to the shoulder.
Symptoms
- Generalised pain, often an aching sensation across the top of the shoulder/s
- Often pain at end of range movements e.g. turning the head or tilting ear across to shoulder
- Does not radiate down the arm or into the hand/fingers
- Aggravated by prolonged positions e.g. reading
Management
- Activity modification
- Ice or heat
- Pain relief
- Physiotherapy to include range of movement exercises and strengthening exercises
Investigations
Not appropriate