Benztropine for the relief of acute non-traumatic neck pain (wry neck): a randomised trial

Immediate Effects of Paraspinal Dry Needling in Patients with Acute Facet Joint Lock Induced Wry Neck

INTRODUCTION

Acute facet joint lock induced wry neck (AFJL-WN) is common among adult population and it is primarily managed by medications and physiotherapy. However, the immediate recovery from pain and movements restriction caused by AFJL-WN is not documented in favour of existing interventions.

AIM

To evaluate the immediate effects of paraspinal dry needling (PSDN) on acute neck pain and movement deficit in patients with AFJL-WN.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 21 patients with AFJL-WN were treated with single session of PSDN for 12-15 minutes. The Visual Analog Scale (0-100mm) and Hand Held Goniometer were used to assess the immediate, 24 hours and 1 week follow-up neck pain and cervical spine's range of motion respectively. The mean and standard deviation was used to make inferences.

RESULTS

Immediately after PSDN the pain score was reduced and cervical spine range of motion have improved. The 24 hours and 1 week follow-up pain and range of motion scores have shown the sustained improvement without deteriorations.

CONCLUSION

PSDN is effective method to achieve pain free neck movements in patients with AFJL-WN.