Health

Chronic neck stiffness linked to post-surgery inactivity and facet joint issues, experts say

Tuesday, 20 May 2025 12:10AM UTC

A longstanding case of neck stiffness and pain, exacerbated by inactivity after heart bypass surgery, highlights the complex role of facet joints in cervical spine health. Specialists recommend targeted steroid injections and physiotherapy, while cautioning against certain therapies, to improve mobility and quality of life.

Stiffness and pain in the neck can profoundly affect daily life, as demonstrated by a recent inquiry from a reader who has endured these symptoms for three years. The complexity of spinal anatomy and the impact of underlying conditions can make this a challenging issue to resolve. Dr. Martin Scurr's response highlights the intricate structure of the cervical spine and suggests a potential pathway towards relief through careful medical intervention.

The cervical spine, comprising seven vertebrae, bears the substantial weight of the head—averaging around 5 kg—while maintaining vital functions such as protecting the spinal cord and allowing for a wide range of motion. Over time, age-related degeneration leads to wear on the intervertebral discs that cushion these vertebrae. This degeneration, known as cervical spondylosis, typically manifests through symptoms like stiffness and discomfort. The Mayo Clinic describes this condition as a common consequence of ageing, exacerbated by physical activity and general wear and tear, with treatment strategies ranging from physical therapy to surgical options for more severe cases.

Interestingly, the reader's symptoms began shortly after heart bypass surgery, raising questions about the body positioning during surgery and subsequent inactivity. These factors may have contributed to problems in the facet joints, which play a crucial role in supporting and stabilizing the spine. Dr. Scurr posits that these joints might be compressing nearby nerves, intensifying pain and limiting mobility. As such, he recommends consultation with a spinal specialist for targeted interventions, including steroid injections aimed at reducing inflammation and alleviating pain.

The effectiveness of these injections can vary; however, when successful, they often lead to significant improvements in quality of life. Following the injections, a regimen of physiotherapy could help restore mobility, although Dr. Scurr advises caution with osteopathy in this sensitive area. This perspective aligns with recommendations from Bumrungrad International Hospital, which emphasises the importance of a tailored approach to physical therapy and the use of pain management strategies as initial steps for managing neck pain.

For individuals with more severe degenerative conditions, surgical options—including spinal decompression or fusion—are available but are typically considered a last resort when conservative treatments fail. The Cleveland Clinic notes that such surgeries often yield positive outcomes, especially in cases where neurological functions are at risk due to severe degeneration.

In a different but relevant inquiry, a reader expressed concern over a diagnosed meningioma—a benign brain tumour that can cause significant anxiety. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of regular monitoring and personalised medical advice when dealing with tumours that are generally non-threatening unless they grow or cause symptoms. Treatment paths may vary based on a range of factors, including the tumour's size and location, as discussed by experts from Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Moreover, the interplay between emotional stress and physical health is increasingly acknowledged. For example, Dr. Scurr notes emerging research indicating stress may impact cancer progression—and by extension, recovery from other physical ailments. This highlights the necessity of a holistic approach to health, recognising that mental and physical health are often mutually reinforcing.

Ultimately, while the journey through chronic neck pain is often complex and fraught with challenges, targeted interventions by specialists, tailored rehabilitation strategies, and an awareness of the broader implications of emotional well-being can collectively contribute to a more manageable experience for those affected. Regular consultations with healthcare providers are crucial in navigating this path towards improved health and a regain of normalcy in daily activities.

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Source: Noah Wire Services

More on this

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14726671/The-REAL-reason-stiff-neck-simple-cure-help-you-not-DR-MARTN-SCURR.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490 - Please view link - unable to able to access data
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cervical-spondylosis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370792 - The Mayo Clinic provides comprehensive information on cervical spondylosis, a condition involving age-related wear and tear of the cervical spine. Treatment options include medications such as NSAIDs and corticosteroids, physical therapy, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions like decompression and fusion. The goal is to alleviate pain, maintain daily activities, and prevent permanent injury to the spinal cord and nerves.
https://www.bumrungrad.com/en/health-blog/may-2023/treatment-for-cervical-spondylosis - Bumrungrad International Hospital discusses the diagnosis and treatment of cervical spine degeneration. Diagnostic methods include X-rays and MRIs. Conservative treatments involve rest, heat application, soft collars, pain relief medications, and physical therapy focusing on joint mobility and muscle strengthening. Surgical options are considered when conservative treatments fail, with procedures like decompression and fusion showing high success rates.
https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/degenerative-disc-disease/cervical-degenerative-disc-disease-treatment-options - Spine-Health outlines various treatment options for cervical degenerative disc disease. Non-surgical approaches include rest, pain management with medications, ice and heat therapy, exercise, and manual manipulation. Surgery is considered when conservative treatments are ineffective or if neurological symptoms worsen, with procedures like anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) and cervical artificial disc replacement being common.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17685-cervical-spondylosis - Cleveland Clinic provides insights into cervical spondylosis, emphasizing that it's a chronic condition with no cure but manageable symptoms. Treatments start with non-invasive methods such as physical therapy, over-the-counter pain relievers, and the use of ice or heat. In severe cases, treatments like cervical epidural steroid injections or spinal fusion surgery may be recommended.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17685-cervical-spondylosis - Cleveland Clinic provides insights into cervical spondylosis, emphasizing that it's a chronic condition with no cure but manageable symptoms. Treatments start with non-invasive methods such as physical therapy, over-the-counter pain relievers, and the use of ice or heat. In severe cases, treatments like cervical epidural steroid injections or spinal fusion surgery may be recommended.
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/meningioma-treatment - Johns Hopkins Medicine discusses treatment options for meningiomas, including observation for small, non-growing tumors, surgical resection for symptomatic or growing tumors, and radiation therapy for tumors that are difficult to remove surgically. The choice of treatment depends on factors like tumor size, location, and the patient's overall health.

Noah Fact Check Pro

The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may warrant further investigation.

Freshness check

Score: 6

Notes: The content mentions a reader's inquiry without specifying recent events or new developments, which suggests it might not be particularly fresh. However, it does not reference outdated information directly.

Quotes check

Score: 8

Notes: The narrative does not include direct quotes from sources that can be verified online. Dr. Scurr's explanations are presented as part of the narrative without a clear quotation source.

Source reliability

Score: 7

Notes: The narrative originates from the Daily Mail, a widely read publication. While it references reputable medical institutions like the Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins Medicine, the reliability can vary based on the presentation of information.

Plausability check

Score: 9

Notes: The claims about cervical spondylosis and its treatment options are plausible and supported by general medical knowledge. The connection between stress and physical health is also a recognised area of research.

Overall assessment

Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS

Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): HIGH

Summary: The narrative is generally reliable, with plausible medical explanations and references to reputable health institutions. However, its freshness is somewhat compromised by the lack of clear timestamps or recent developments.

neck pain
cervical spondylosis
spinal health
physiotherapy
steroid injections