What is Tension Neck Syndrome?

Tension neck syndrome?

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Tension neck syndrome is a work-related soft-tissue syndrome with symptoms including fatigue and stiffness in the neck, pain in the neck and shoulder, headache radiating from the neck and muscle spasms.

The primary signs that you may be suffering from tension neck syndrome are tenderness in the descending trapezius muscles, in particular two tender spots or palpable hardenings.

How is Tension neck syndrome caused?

Tension neck syndrome is a type of repetitive strain injury (RSI), caused when stresses to the muscle and neck are applied to excess, causing the tissues to break down.

It can result from a number of different risk factors, including holding an immobile posture for too long, which, in turn, causes a static contraction of the muscles.

Conversely, high frequency movements are also thought to be a cause of tension neck syndrome, as the high speed of the tendon sliding through the tendon sheath combines with the static contraction of muscles situated nearer to the centre of the body.

People who spend much of their time at a computer are at particular risk of suffering from neck pain, as are those who work in a stressful environment. Initial advice is normally to carry on with your normal working day, keep mobile, and take painkillers such as ibuprofen and paracetamol where appropriate. You can also check your posture to ensure that that is not a contributory factor to the pain.

If the pain does not improve, you should see your doctor who may be able to find areas which feel hard or tender to the touch. A stronger painkiller such as codeine may be prescribed, or you may be referred to a physiotherapist or pain specialist.