A. Causes

• Muscle Tension/Strain: Overuse or sustained loading from poor posture (“Tech Neck”).
• Cervical Spondylosis: Age-related degenerative changes in the cervical discs and joints.
• Cervical Radiculopathy: Nerve root irritation caused by disc herniation or foraminal stenosis.
• Whiplash: Acute injury from rapid acceleration/deceleration forces.
• Joint Dysfunction: Stiffness or hypomobility in the facet joints of the neck.

B. Symptoms

• Pain: Aching, sharp, or stiff pain localized in the neck.
• Restricted ROM: Difficulty turning, tipping, or looking over the shoulder.
• Headache (Cervicogenic): Pain originating from the neck that refers to the head/face.
• Radiating Symptoms: Pain, numbness, or tingling extending into the shoulder, arm, or hand.
• Dizziness/Vertigo: May occur with movement in cases of upper cervical joint involvement.

C. Diagnosis

• Assessment: Checking active and passive range of motion and identifying postural faults.
• Special Tests: Spurling’s test to check for nerve root compression.
• Neurological Exam: Testing dermatomes, myotomes, and reflexes to confirm radiculopathy.
• Ergonomic Review: Assessing the patient’s workstation and sleep setup for contributing factors.

D. Physiotherapy Treatment Plan

• Manual Therapy: Cervical and thoracic joint mobilization/manipulation to restore movement.
• DNF Strengthening: Strengthening the Deep Neck Flexors using the “chin tuck” exercise to correct forward head posture.
• Muscle Balance: Stretching tight Pectorals and Upper Trapezius; strengthening Scapular Retractors.
• Ergonomic Intervention: Adjusting monitor height and providing lumbar/cervical support.
• Traction/Nerve Glides: Used to relieve pressure on irritated nerve roots.
• Postural Endurance: Training low-level, sustained muscle activation to maintain corrected alignment.