Understanding Wry Neck

What is Wry Neck?

Wry neck, also known as acute torticollis, is a sudden onset of neck stiffness, pain and/or associated muscle spasms. It can impact our daily lives from working to relaxing.

There is no definite cause for wry neck, but is most likely due to irritation of structures within the joints of the cervical spine.

1. Facet joint: Located on the back of the neck, these joints stabilise and facilitate movement. 

2. Discogenic: While not as common, this occurs when intervertebral discs in the neck cause pain and stiffness, potentially neurological issues if the spinal nerves are compressed by the discs. 

Wry neck can be attributed to lifestyle factors such as:

• Prolonged poor posture

• Poor sleeping position

• Sudden or awkward neck movements

Symptoms

• One-sided neck pain. It can also radiate into the shoulder or upper back

• Reduced neck movement

• Muscle spasms

• Headaches

If you experience these symptoms and they are persisting, seek treatment early. If necessary, your therapist or doctor may advise you to undergo imaging e.g CT, MRI or an x-ray to determine the cause of your symptoms such as facet joint, disc degeneration or osteoarthritis. 

Treatment

The goal is to regain mobility in the neck and reduce your pain, here at some treatment options that we offer at Physio Room Pymble.

• Manual therapy

  • This can include massage, mobilisation and manipulation to ease muscle tension and improve joint mobility 

• Dry needling, acupuncture 

• Exercise therapy 

  • Strength exercises to improve posture, stability and prevent the recurrence of symptoms (Fun fact: the human head weighs approximately 5kg!)

  • Stretches to improve flexibility and reduce muscle tightness

• Advice/education

  • Activity/workplace modifications

  • Regular breaks to avoid being in sustained neck positions. 

  • Heat to stimulate muscle relaxation and improve blood flow

• Medication

  • Anti-inflammatories can be effective in reducing inflammation and pain

At Physio Room Pymble, we provide effective, personalised care to support your recovery and return to daily life pain-free. Living with neck pain can be debilitating and frustrating, which is why early treatment means a prompt recovery!

Kristen Ni

Physiotherapist

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised guidance and treatment.