Bearing in mind the limited number of studies and the low method ological quality , there are some indications that the localization ( radiation to the arms/neurologic signs ) and radiologic findings ( degenerative changes in the discs and joints ) are not associated with a worse prognosis .
A higher severity of pain and a history of previous attacks however , seems to be associated with a worse prognosis
Neck pain occurs frequently in western societies .
In the majority of cases , no specific cause can be identified .
In order to gain insight into the clinical course and prognostic factors of non-specific neck pain , a systematic review was conducted .
Manipulation of the cervical spine--a pilot study.
A r and omized controlled trial of manipulation of the cervial spine was carried out on 52 patients in general practice , and the results were assessed symptomatically and goniometrically for three weeks . Manipulation produced a significant immediate improvement in symptoms in those with pain or stiffness in the neck , and pain/paraesthesia in the shoulder , and a nearly significant improvement in those with pain/paraesthesia in the arm/h and . Manipulation also produced a significant increase in measured rotation that was maintained for three weeks and an immediate improvement in lateral flexion that was not maintained . This is to our knowledge the first published formal trial of such manipulation and should increase interest in this form of treatment by the medical profession
Bearing in mind the limited number of studies and the low method ological quality , there are some indications that the localization ( radiation to the arms/neurologic signs ) and radiologic findings ( degenerative changes in the discs and joints ) are not associated with a worse prognosis .
A higher severity of pain and a history of previous attacks however , seems to be associated with a worse prognosis
Neck pain occurs frequently in western societies .
In the majority of cases , no specific cause can be identified .
In order to gain insight into the clinical course and prognostic factors of non-specific neck pain , a systematic review was conducted .