The Neck

Tumours, infections, aneurysms and metabolic and inflammatory diseases are rare causes of neck pain. Most cases involve neck pain of unknown origin or a whiplash-associated disorder. Neck pain is common in the general community and more common in certain occupations. The natural history is relatively benign, but some 10% of patients will suffer chronic, severe symptoms. Psychosocial factors have been refuted as risk factors; the cardinal risk factors relate to occupation. In whiplash, the severity of initial symptoms is the cardinal determinant of chronicity. History is the major factor when considering diagnosis, physical examination adding little to the diagnosis. Imaging is not indicated in the vast majority of cases. The available evidence does not support most of the physical, medical and surgical therapies currently practised. Confident reassurance is paramount and justified for acute cases. Proven options for chronic neck pain are few.