Outcome of Physiotherapy Treatment for Chronic Neck Pain: A Case Study

Abstract

Physiotherapists are autonomous health professionals and they have to deal with familiar and unfamiliar cases in clinical practice in musculoskeletal area. Based on the patients complains and evaluation of complaints, Physiotherapists select different treatment approaches. The aim of the study was to describe the clinical decision as well as treatment of a single case suffering from cervical spine problem. Mrs. X is a 47 years old housewife complained of occasional mild posterior and right lateral neck and right shoulder pain. The intensity of pain was moderately higher in right shoulder than neck. She has been suffering from this problem for last six months. The patient rated her neck pain 3/10 and right shoulder pain as a 6/10 on a numeric pain rating (NPR) scale. Patient also had history of hypertension and taking medication for it. Physician initially diagnosed her as right frozen shoulder and he referred to Physiotherapist for better management. Cervical muscle strengthening exercise, Mulligan and Maitland mobilization applied 3 sessions per week for 4 weeks. Each session consists of 30 minutes. The outcome of this case study would strengthen Physiotherapy practitioners, academicians and researchers knowledge on chronic neck pain management.