WHAT IS IT? ACUTE NECK PAIN
A facet joint can become locked in the neck. This often occurs following a rapid movement. It is extremely painful and restrictive to movement of the neck.
Also known as Locked Joint, Cervicak Facet Dysfunction, Apophyseal Wry Neck
Signs & Symptoms
Sudden onset of pain
Sharp pain on movement of the neck
Pain affecting one side of the neck
Tilting of head away from the painful side
Muscle spasm
What Causes It?
More common in adolescents and young adults
Sudden movement
Trauma
Poor stability of the deep stabilising neck muscles
How to Self Manage
Avoid moving the neck into painful positions
Use ice to reduce pain and swelling
If tolerated, and if spasm is prominent, heat can be used to decrease pain and relax muscle spasm
Prognosis
Can resolve spontaneously, but if pain and restriction continues, medication and manual treatment would be of great benefit.
How Physio Helps
Joint mobilisation
Joint manipulation
Massage
Acupuncture
Manual traction
Prescription of exercises to address muscle tightness
Prescription of strengthening exercises to improve stability of the neck
Use electrical therapies including ultrasound