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Neck Pain Care Pathway

Date of last update: February, 2024

Neck pain is a common condition that can be acute or persistent, presenting as a dull ache or sharp pain. Care planning can be challenging. Neck pain can have associated disorders, including headache, pain radiating to the arms or referring to the upper back. Neck pain can be non-specific (no distinct cause), or specific (linked to a particular cause or underlying condition). Clinical management can be complex. Structured patient education (including advice to stay active, reassurance, and self-care advice) is important in all types of neck pain. Specialized care pathways combining multiple interventions may be considered, depending on the cause and chronicity.

Conduct patient assessment

Red flags present

Red flags present

click to learn more

Refer to appropriate emergency or healthcare provider

  • Structured patient education

  • Exercise (strength, range of motion)

  • Manual therapies (e.g., spinal manipulation or mobilization, massage)

  • Low-level laser therapy

  • Psychological / social support

  • Medicines

  • Referral

Major symptom/sign change

Goals not achieved

Re-evaluate

Adjust treatment and management plan or refer

References or links to primary sources

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contact information for further inquiries or feedback

carolina.cancelliere@ontariotechu.ca

Disclaimer:

These care pathways are intended to provide information to practitioners who provide care to people with musculoskeletal conditions. The care pathways on this website are 'living' documents, reflecting the state of clinical practice and research evidence to our best knowledge at the time of development. As knowledge and healthcare practices evolve, these pathways may be updated to ensure they remain current and evidence driven. These pathways are not intended to replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider.

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CCGI is funded by provincial associations and regulatory boards, and national associations including the Canadian Chiropractic Association

and Canadian Chiropractic Protective Association. CCGI maintains editorial independence from funders.

All content and media on the Canadian Chiropractic Guideline Initiative (CCGI) website is created and published online for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional with questions, concerns or management regarding your health.

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