This is a very painful condition and often presents when you wake up in the morning. The neck is
almost stuck in a position, which is normally slightly off to one side. Patients normally cannot turn
their head to one side and are unable to bring their head up to a central position. The muscles are in
spasm to protect what is underlying and there may be some underlying joint stiffness. Occasionally
there is a disc element to this condition or degeneration in the joints. Take care when seeking
treatment for this- make sure you do not have any manipulation unless it is carried out by an
experienced practitioner and they have ruled out a disc problem as the cause.
Physiotherapy treatment would consist of gentle joint mobilisations, soft tissue work and release,
manipulation if appropriate and gentle exercises.
BY SHELLEY ABRAHAM MSc MMACP MCSP
OWNER OF PHYSIO FITNESS
