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