Integrated Approaches to Treat Cervical Pain

Mechanical cervical pain is a common musculoskeletal condition characterized by pain in the cervical region without a serious structural cause. It is usually related to postural alterations, joint and muscular dysfunctions, and movement restrictions. In this context, manual therapy offers a set of effective tools to address these dysfunctions in an individualized and holistic manner.

From the osteopathic perspective, the treatment of cervical pain is based on the assessment and correction at the articular and myofascial level. Techniques such as mobilization, structural manipulation, and myofascial release are applied with the goal of restoring functional balance and reducing pain.

Global Postural Reeducation (GPR) offers a postural assessment that considers the global nature of static muscular chains. In cases of cervical pain, the objective is to decompress the vertebral axis and normalize muscular tension through active and progressive stretching postures. This approach not only relieves pain but also aims to address the postural cause that generates and/or perpetuates it.

Kinesiotherapy provides an active approach based on therapeutic movement. Specific exercises are used to improve cervical mobility, strengthen the deep stabilizing muscles, and retrain motor control. The goal is to restore functional movement patterns and prevent relapses.

Neurodynamics, or mobilization of the nervous system, is applied in cases where there is irritation or sensitization of neural structures, such as the brachial plexus or the greater occipital nerve. Neurodynamic techniques help improve the mobility of the nerve within its anatomical tunnels and/or within the connective structure of the nerve itself, reducing radiating pain and associated neuromuscular dysfunction.

The approach based on physiological chains, developed by Léopold Busquet, complements these treatments by considering the body’s global organization in relation to visceral, myofascial, and articular tensions. The goal is to release blockages and restrictions throughout the system, promoting a harmonious postural reorganization that has a direct impact on the cervical region.

Integrating these methods allows for a multimodal approach tailored to each patient's reality. Together, they support a more complete and lasting recovery, with a focus on addressing the root cause of the problem as well as its symptoms.