Neck Crick! (Levator Scapulae Spasm)

A ‘neck crick’ or levator scapulae spasm is one of the most common causes of sudden neck stiffness and pain. If can occur overnight from sleeping in an awkward position, after prolonged sitting at a desk, carrying heavy bags on one shoulder, or during times of stress and tension. The levator scapulae is a muscle that runs from the top of your shoulder blade to the side of your neck, and when it goes into spasm, even small movements like turning your head or looking over your shoulder can feel very restricted and painful.

Symptoms of a ‘crick in the neck’ often include :

• Sharp or aching pain along the side of the neck, top of the shoulder, or between the shoulder blades
• Stiffness and reduced range of motion, especially turning the head
• Protective muscle tightening that can extend into the upper back or cause tension type headaches

In many cases, physiotherapy is highly effective at reducing pain, releasing the spasm, and restoring neck movement. However, if not properly managed, recurring spasm can contribute to chronic stiffness, shoulder pain, or even postural changes. Most people notice significant improvements within the first few sessions. Treatment typically includes:

• Soft tissue massage to ease the muscle spasm and tightness
• Joint mobilisations to restore movement
• Dry needling to reduce muscle spasm and increase blood flow to the area
• Stretching exercises to improve flexibility and mobility
• Eventually strengthening exercises / Pilates to strengthen the muscles and prevent recurrence of neck pain stiffness and spasm

With physiotherapy treatment people recover quickly, restoring full movement and reducing the chance of recurrences. To book an appointment to see a physiotherapist about your shin pain book online at www.daltonphysio.ie or call us on 01-9081101 and we’d be happy to help.