Stiff neck
Neck stiffness, also known as nuchal rigidity, is a generic term generally used to describe a pathological condition characterized by reduced mobility in the cervical region, often accompanied by discomfort when turning the head and a general reduction in function that can impact on physical activities and daily living. Sometimes this condition can be correlated with a specific event, such as a road accident, or more frequently with waking up after sleeping in an unusual position, but neck stiffness is multifactorial and not always attributable to a particular cause. A number of factors may be at the root of this condition, such as poor posture, weakness, a sedentary lifestyle, but also high-intensity activities and excessive strain on the neck. This is why a holistic approach is essential in the diagnosis and treatment of patients suffering from stiff neck.
Neck stiffness usually disappears spontaneously, with symptoms subsiding within a few days. Should the condition persist for longer, we advise you to consult a doctor. At Foxphysio, after a careful visit from one of our specialized doctors, you'll receive a specific diagnosis and a recovery plan tailored to your needs. Conservative treatment is generally the first line of treatment, consisting of rehabilitation, education and, if necessary, pharmacological intervention (e.g. drugs, injections, etc.). Our facilities are perfectly adapted to patients' needs, with four different environments - the pool, the gym, the movement analysis and re-education room, and the grounds - available to support your recovery process. In the early stages, the main aim of rehabilitation is to minimize symptoms. Mobility recovery and muscle activation usually progress at the same time as posture optimization. In the middle of rehabilitation, regaining strength and stability in the neck and upper limbs becomes the priority, as well as improving the overall quality of your movements to learn how to optimally coordinate neck and upper body movements. If you suffer from this pathology while practising a sport, rehabilitation on the field plays a fundamental role.