Cervical intervertebral discs sit in between the cervical vertebrae and are subject to many forces during everyday activities. This tissue is subject to both degenerative changes and acute injuries, and can result in both localised neck pain, or pain that is referred from your neck towards your shoulder, arm and scapula.
Symptoms associated with cervical disc injuries can vary greatly. They can be dependent on many factors, including the individual, pain mechanisms, severity etc.
There are many factors that can contribute to the development of cervical disc injury.
– Prolonged or repetitive adverse loading
– Lifestyle factors (work, sport etc)
– Poor movement strategies
– Muscle imbalances and strength deficits
– Poor motor patterning
– Age
– Genetics
– Individual anatomical variations
– Injury history
DIAGNOSE
Diagnosis is a vital part of managing any injury. Not only is it important to determine which structures are responsible for our symptoms, but why they have become symptomatic. Addressing the ‘why’ will ensure adequate recovery and prevention of future injury. Our Geelong Physiotherapists will work with you to ensure an accurate diagnosis of your injury.
EDUCATION
It is important that you have an understanding of your diagnosis, and what strategies are important for acute management, and reduction of future injury risk
MOTOR CONTROL
As a contributor to neck pain is often deficits in postural strength, endurance, stability, patterns of muscle activation etc., these need to be accurately assessed and improved
MANUAL THERAPIES
Manual therapies include: Soft tissue techniques, dry needling, joint mobilisation / manipulation etc.; these may be used to assist with symptoms
ACTIVITY MODIFICATION
You will often be advised to modify provocative activities to allow tissue recovery
STRENGTHENING
Strengthening is a vital part of management for neck pain; this often involves progressions into a gym environment to ensure we are appropriately challenging tissues to strengthen, and improving their tolerance to daily living
REFERRAL
As with any injury, sometimes referral to other professionals is required in the management of neck pain. This may include referral for imaging, referral to your GP, or referral pain specialists or orthopaedic surgeons
If you have any questions about your neck pain or possible cervical disc injury, please do not hesitate to contact us on (03) 5229 3911, email us at info@theinjuryclinic.com.au or book an appointment to see one of our Geelong physiotherapists.
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