Kelowna Manual Therapy Centre Blog

Wry Neck

Neck

Monday, 21 October 2013

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Wry neck presents itself as an acutely painful neck either caused by a sudden unexpected motion or discovered upon waking. In either case the pain is so debilitating that medical help is usually sought.

The acutely painful neck presents itself in one of two ways either a lack of mobility turning towards the painful side. The other typical presentation is that the person suffering wry neck has to hold the head bend and turned away from the side of injury.

The most effective treatment is manual therapy consisting of a quick manipulation if pain allows (or joint mobilization).

After the manual therapy treatment is followed up by heat and electrical stimulation for 15 minutes. After the 15 minutes a series of exercised to regain range of motion is undertaken. This wry neck treatment program was first written about by New Zealand physiotherapist Brian Mulligan. http://www.bmulligan.com/about/concept.html

In the vast majority of cases after this physiotherapy session the mobility is considerably improved. The patient is then instructed to continue this program again that evening and again next morning. If sleep is disturbed a towel rolled up around the neck can be used at night.

The good news is that around 90% of patients will feel better with early treatment in 1-2 days.

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About the author

Ross McKinnon

Ross is a 1995 graduate of the University of Manitoba. After graduation Ross continued to study and work in Georgia, USA, at a clinic renowed for treatment of patients, including professional athletes such as PGA golfers. While in Georgia, he went on to specialize in spinal rehabilitation. Ross returned to Canada in 2000 to work at Rutland Physical Therapy and continue his studies. Ross completed his post graduate Diploma in Manual and Manipulative Therapy from the Canadian Physiotherapy Association in 2005. This diploma allows the title Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Manual Physical Therapy (FCAMPT) to be used. In the fall of 2006, Ross joined the Kelowna Manual Therapy Centre as a partner. Since joining the clinic Ross has completed his Gunn Intramuscular stimulation training with Dr. Chann Gunn in Vancouver. Ross has a special interest in treating spinal conditions through manual therapy, IMS and specific therapeutic exercise. Ross is married with two sons. Ross is active cycling, running, hiking, camping and skiing. Ross is a volunteer coach with the Telemark nordic racing program, coaching 10-15 year old athletes.