Mechanical cervical pain

Defined as pain in the back of the neck, it is a common reason for medical consultations.

It may have different aetiologies: bad posture, maintaining a certain posture for a long time (for example, looking at a computer screen), or associated with an anxious or depressive state that maintains cervical tension.

This is characterised by localised pain and stiffness, asymmetric contracture, and functional limitation. It may be accompanied by tingling in the 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 to rule out other diseases.

Treatment should combine modified posture habits (especially when sleeping), locally applied heat, analgesics/anti-inflammatory medication, muscle relaxants and physiotherapy.