Mechanical cervical pain

Neck pain is defined as pain in the back of the neck and is a common reason for medical consultations. When the symptoms last for less than 12 weeks, it is known as acute neck pain, and if symptoms exceed that limit, it is known as chronic neck pain. It may have different etiologies (infectious, neurological, biomechanical, inflammatory, neoplastic, referring, etc.), with mechanical causes accounting for 90% of cases. This is characterized by localized pain and stiffness, asymmetric contracture, partial functional limitation, and may be accompanied by tingling in shoulders, weakness, loss of mobility, dizziness, balance disorders, torticollis and headache. Pain improves with rest so it typically improves in the evenings and worsens during the day. It is diagnosed by taking the medical record and performing a full physical examination, which must include an examination of strength and sensitivity of the limbs. Imaging tests may be performed as complementary examinations, if necessary. Treatment should combine modified posture habits (especially when sleeping), locally applied heat, analgesics/anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants (although there is no evidence of their effectiveness) and physiotherapy.