Nonspecific neck pain

Common mechanical neck pain without a specific identifiable structural cause.

Overview

Nonspecific neck pain is the most common neck complaint. It is usually mechanical, linked to posture, load and stress, and tends to settle with movement, reassurance and graded exercise.

Symptoms

Aching or stiffness in the neck and upper shoulders
Reduced or painful neck movement
Symptoms worse with sustained postures
Occasional tension-type headache

Causes

Sustained postures and low movement variety
Stress and poor sleep
Sudden or unaccustomed loading
Deconditioning of the neck and shoulder muscles

Treatment

Reassurance and posture variety
Mobility and strengthening exercise
Manual therapy as an adjunct
Stress and sleep management