Acute wry neck, also known as torticollis, is a condition that many of our patients at Back in Motion Braybrook experience. It’s a painful and sudden condition that can severely limit neck movement, often causing discomfort in daily activities. Fortunately, with the right treatment and care, recovery is possible. Let’s dive into the causes, symptoms, and effective treatments for acute wry neck.
What Causes Acute Wry Neck?
Acute wry neck typically occurs when the muscles in the neck contract or spasm, leading to sudden stiffness and pain. Common causes include:
- Poor Sleeping Position: Waking up with a stiff neck due to an awkward sleep posture is a common trigger.
- Sudden Movements: Twisting or turning your neck too quickly can strain the muscles and cause pain.
- Prolonged Poor Posture: Extended periods of poor posture, such as hunching over a desk or looking down at a phone, can lead to neck muscle strain.
Symptoms to Look Out For
Symptoms of acute wry neck can be quite sudden and severe. They may include:
- Sharp Neck Pain: Typically on one side, making it difficult to turn your head.
- Restricted Neck Movement: Difficulty turning your head in any direction.
- Muscle Spasms: Tightness or spasm in the affected neck muscles
Osteo and Physio Treatment: Relief and Recovery
At Back in Motion Braybrook, both osteopaths and physiotherapists are well-equipped to treat acute wry neck. We focus on both immediate relief and long-term recovery through manual therapy and exercise rehabilitation.
Manual Therapy: Hands-on treatment, such as gentle mobilisations, manipulations, soft tissue massage, and stretching, can help release tight muscles, improve range of motion, and reduce pain. Dry needling and cupping may also be used to relieve muscle tension and promote healing.
Exercise Rehab: Targeted exercises are introduced to help restore strength and mobility in the neck. Early-stage rehab may focus on gentle range of motion exercises, progressing to strengthening exercises to prevent future occurrences.
Sleep Hygiene and Ergonomics
To reduce the frequency of acute wry neck episodes, proper sleep hygiene and ergonomics are key.
Sleep Hygiene: Ensure your pillow supports the natural curve of your neck, and avoid sleeping in awkward positions. A supportive mattress and good sleep posture can also help prevent strain.
Ergonomics: Take regular breaks to avoid prolonged periods of strain on your neck.
Take the First Step to Recovery
If you’re experiencing the pain of acute wry neck, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. At Back in Motion Braybrook, our team of osteopaths and physiotherapists can guide you through your recovery journey with tailored treatments to ensure both short and long-term results.