Wry Neck is a relatively common, acute episode of neck pain. It is characterised by the sudden onset of sharp pain and neck stiffness which restricts one’s ability to turn their head. Physiotherapy is an effective method to minimise neck pain and have you back to full health sooner.
Have you ever woken with severe neck pain and found it extremely difficult to move your head?
If so, it is likely that you might have experienced an episode of Wry neck.
Typical symptoms of Wry neck include:
Acute wry neck typically occurs without warning. The exact cause of wry neck if not completely understood. However we do know that it can be triggered by one of the following events:
Also known as the cervical spine, the neck consists of 7 building blocks called the cervical vertebrae. Each vertebra is separated by a disc and joins to another vertebra above/below it to form a facet joint. Together the disc and facet joints support the weight of the head and allow movement within the neck.
Discs are spongey shock absorbers that lie between each vertebra. These discs may sustain micro-injury under stress, leading to inflammation and swelling. This causes increased pressure to the surrounding structures within the neck and consequently high levels of pain and restricted neck movement.
Facet joints are small swivel joints that allow smooth gliding and turning movements. Irritating positions or movements of the neck can cause a “locking” sensation. This leads to irritation in the facet joint and associated muscle spasm. Nerve endings located within this region trigger intense pain and jerky movement.
The good news about Wry Neck is that it can be treated quickly and effectively with the help of one of our Physiotherapists at Dr7 Physiotherapy & Podiatry. We recommend immediate treatment for best results.
At Dr7, we will undertake an assessment of your neck to confirm diagnosis and the joints involved. This will form a management program which will be provided and put into action with the help of our therapists.
Our aims at Dr7 Physiotherapy & Podiatry are:
If you suspect an acute wry neck, please call out clinic and we’ll do our best to fast track your appointment.
Gentle treatment modalities are used to normalise facet joint function and settle soft tissue sensitisation:
If an episode of Wry Neck occurs it is important to take the following steps until you review with one of our Physiotherapists:
With Physiotherapy treatment symptoms will ease within the first 1-4 days, with normal function being restored within the first 2 weeks.
If you have questions please feel free to contact our clinic today on (08) 3949 1777. Wry neck is a debilitating injury, however it can be easily resolved with the help of Physiotherapy intervention.
