Physical Therapy   Physical therapy by an experienced therapist may improve pain symptoms. The goals of physical therapy include bringing the head position back toward normal, increasing the range of motion, and decreasing the pain, thereby increasing functional ability. The physical therapist may employ a variety of techniques to achieve these goals. Primarily the physical therapist will gently move the neck through its range of motion, stretching the spasming agonist muscles. The PT may take advantage of geste antagonist, stimulating the skin by gentle stroking or by applying ice to decrease the contraction of agonist during neck maneuvers.   If you are interested in learning more about physical therapy used for ST, contact the NSTA at 1-800-HURTFUL.

Last update: January 5, 2007