Neck pain
Common Diseases According to Family Medicine Practice Guidelines, NOVA Science Publishers Inc. , ss.15-28, 2025
- Yayın Türü: Kitapta Bölüm / Araştırma Kitabı
- Basım Tarihi: 2025
- Yayınevi: NOVA Science Publishers Inc.
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.15-28
- Anahtar Kelimeler: Cervical myelopathy, Cervical pain, Cervical radiculopathy, Cervicalgia, Neck pain, Neck pain management
- Sağlık Bilimleri Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Neck pain can be attributed to various factors, including trauma, degeneration, inflammation, infection, tumors, and problems related to spinal cord compression. However, diagnosing non-traumatic neck pain can be challenging. To establish a diagnosis for individuals reporting neck pain, it is essential to consider their age and the characteristics of the pain. This process involves conducting diagnostic tests guided by a thorough medical history and a physical examination. The key is to determine whether the pain arises from musculoskeletal sources (muscles, ligaments, bones, and joints) or nervous system-related structures (myelopathy, radiculopathy, and spinal cord problems). In cases of acute neck pain without radicular or myelopathic symptoms, without trauma history, and without any association with fever, weight loss, malignancy, or inflammatory conditions, the condition is often benign. Conservative treatments are usually sufficient, and imaging may not be necessary. However, if there is a history of trauma, chronic neck pain, previous neck surgery, or malignancy, a 3-view cervical spine X-ray (AP, lateral, and open-mouth odontoid views) can help diagnose. If there is a known inflammatory disease history, assessing instability and the atlantoaxial joint is crucial, in addition to flexion and extension views. For patients with neurological symptoms, an MRI is recommended regardless of plain radiograph results. Furthermore, an MRI may be warranted in cases of instability, suspected infection, or when a malignancy needs to be ruled out. When MRI is not an option, a CT myelogram can serve as an alternative imaging approach.