For a 24-year-old patient experiencing neck pain, headaches, dizziness, and a visible hump, the likely cause is poor posture, muscle imbalance, or early cervical spine dysfunction rather than severe degenerative issues.
Possible Causes:
1. Forward Head Posture & Dowager’s Hump – Prolonged use of phones/computers can weaken deep neck muscles and tighten upper traps.
2. Cervical Muscle Strain – Overuse or incorrect posture can lead to pain and tension.
3. Cervicogenic Dizziness & Headaches – Poor neck posture can restrict blood flow or irritate nerves, causing dizziness.
4. Early Signs of Cervical Spondylosis or Disc Issues – Less common at 24 but possible with poor posture or excessive strain.
Physiotherapy Management:
Immediate Steps:
• Postural Correction: Maintain neutral spine, avoid prolonged forward head posture.
• Stretching & Mobility Exercises:
• Chin tucks (to strengthen deep neck flexors)
• Upper trapezius & levator scapulae stretches
• Thoracic extension stretches (foam roller or wall exercises)
• Strengthening Exercises:
• Scapular retractions
• Shoulder blade squeezes
• Cervical isometric exercises
• Heat/Ice Therapy: Use a warm compress for muscle relaxation if stiffness is present.
• Pillow Adjustment: Use a thin or ergonomic pillow to support cervical alignment.
• Limit Strenuous Activities: Avoid excessive lifting or looking down at screens for long periods.
If Symptoms Persist:
• Cervical Traction: Can be beneficial for reducing nerve compression.
• Manual Therapy & Soft Tissue Release: Physiotherapist-guided mobilization can improve mobility and relieve tension.
• Vestibular Assessment: If dizziness continues, a vestibular specialist may need to rule out inner ear involvement.
• Medical Imaging (X-ray/MRI): If symptoms do not improve in a few weeks, further investigation may be required.
Answered2025-02-12 17:08:38
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