Description
Neck pain is a common regional pain syndrome. Previous injury, heavy manual occupation and stress at work increase risk of pain. ‘Whiplash’ injury increasingly demands services amidst debate on its physical or functional nature. Litigation and medical intervention may promote chronicity.
Most neck pain is non-pathological without specific diagnosis. Imaging is unhelpful showing degenerative changes largely in keeping with age and similar to that seen in asymptomatic individuals. Reports of spondylosis lead to less confident management. Imaging should be reserved for those with suspicion of serious pathology and post trauma cases.
Treatment remains principally that of reassurance and pain relief and manual therapies. Patients require education and support in managing pain. New techniques of neurotomy are helpful in selected patients.
