Different Types

Torticollis:

• Aetiology: unclear, associated with poor posture, CP, medication-induced dystonia (domperidone, metoclopramide, prochlorperazine, antipsychotics), trauma
• Sudden severe unilateral pain
• Restricted painful neck movements
• Diffuse tenderness on the involved side
• Palpable spasms
• common in women aged 50-55

Whiplash:

• Aetiology: acceleration-deceleration mechanism causing bony and soft tissue injuries
• Neck pain
• Headaches
• Referred pain to the shoulders and arms
• Canadian C-Spine Rule: assess serious injury risk
• Visual Analogue Scale: pain severity assessment
• Neck Disability Index: disability assessment

Cervical Radiculopathy:

• Nerve root compression/inflammation from degenerative changes, spondylosis, disc herniation
• Neck pain
• Pain and weakness along the dermatome
• Unilateral or bilateral arm symptoms
• Common at C7 level
• Referred pain to upper back, chest, shoulder
• more common in men
• Investigations:

• Spurling test: most common for radiculopathy
• Arm squeeze test
• Axial traction test
• Unilateral neurodynamic tests