Common Neck Problems

Abstract

Abstract Successful treatment of painful cervical spine disorders hinges on the accurate assessment of the underlying tissue injury, which can involve a broad range of biomechanical and biochemical disorders. The clinician needs to conceptualize a process of diagnosis and treatment that incorporates an understanding of the pathophysiology of cervical spine injury and the associated potential symptom manifestations, an awareness of the advantages and disadvantages of the myriad of diagnostic tools, and knowledge of the potential therapeutic options. The initial step in this process is the history taking. It is important that one distinguish between cervical axial pain (neck pain) and upper limb pain. Evaluating and treating common cervical spine disorders requires the completion of a probability analysis of what injured structure is most likely responsible for the patient’s presentation. An astute spine clinician recognizes individual symptom composites to accurately diagnose and treat these injuries. This chapter is intended to be a foundation for approaching common painful cervical spine disorders, and provides a view of a tiered treatment algorithm, which incorporates appropriate therapeutic interventions across a spectrum of care.