Self Help

Muscular Neck Conditions

Muscular Neck Conditions

Self Help Guides | Neck Conditions | Muscular Neck Conditions

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

Exercises to try

Muscular Neck Conditions