Neck and shoulder pain
EBM Guidelines
Nov 11, 2022 • Completely updated
Table of contents
Extract
- As the prognosis of patients with neck pain is usually relatively good, symptoms can be treated without a specific diagnosis as long as diseases that are serious or require immediate treatment have been excluded.
- The prognosis of acute neck pain is usually good and recovery spontaneous. Any strain that may provoke the pain should be addressed.
- In the treatment of localized neck pain, continuation of normal activities and safe analgesic medication are the primary measures.
- In the treatment of chronic neck pain, neck and shoulder exercise improving muscular strength or endurance may be beneficial.
- Progressive muscle weakness or myelopathy warrants referral for urgent or immediate assessment for surgical treatment.
Linked evidence summaries
- Specific strengthening exercises as a part of routine practice for chronic neck pain, cervicogenic headache and radiculopathy appear to be beneficial.B
- Tricyclic antidepressants, duloxetine and venlafaxine are effective in the treatment of neuropathic pain.A
Search terms
Anti-Inflammatory Agents, M53.1, M54.2, M75.9, Manipulation, Orthopedic, Neck Pain, Orthopaedics, Physical medicine, S13.4, Shoulder Pain, acute whiplash injury, chronic whiplash injury, muscle relaxant, radiating symptom, radiofrequency treatment