Neck stiffness, also known as nuchal rigidity, is an umbrella term typically used to describe a medical condition that is characterised by decreased mobility of the cervical area, often accompanied by discomfort when turning the head and a general reduced functioning that can impact physical and daily living activities. Sometimes this condition may be correlated to a specific event, such as a motor vehicle accident, or more commonly when waking up after sleeping in an unusual position, however, neck stiffness is multifactorial, and it is not always attributable to a particular cause. Several factors can lead to this condition, such as poor posture, weakness, a sedentary lifestyle, but also high-intensity activities, and excessive strain on the neck. For this reason, a holistic approach is paramount in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with neck stiffness.
Management
Neck stiffness typically resolves spontaneously, with symptoms subsiding within a few days. In case this condition was to last for longer periods, our advice is to seek medical attention. In Isokinetic, after being thoughtfully visited by one of our specialised doctors, you will be provided with a specific diagnosis and a recovery plan tailored to your needs. Conservative treatment is typically the first line of treatment, consisting of rehabilitation, education, and if needed pharmacological intervention (e.g.: medications, injections, etc.). Our facilities are highly adaptable to the patients’ needs with four different environments, the pool, the gym, the movement analysis and retraining room, and the pitch, available to support your recovery process. In the early stages, the main goal of the rehabilitation is to minimise your symptoms. Mobility recovery and muscle activation are typically progressed together with the optimisation of your posture. In the mid-stage of rehabilitation, neck and upper limb strength and stability recovery become the priority, together with the enhancement of your general movement quality to learn how to optimally coordinate neck and upper body movements. If suffering from this condition when playing sport, to complete the recovery process, on-field rehabilitation plays a fundamental role in allowing you to return to participate in your favourite activities, maximising your rehabilitation outcomes and reducing the likelihood of complications.