Türk Nöroşirürji Dergisi 2023 , Vol 33 , Num 2
Changes in Upper Extremity Functions in Non-Specific Neck Pain
Abdulkadir GÖZ1,Sevgi ÖZALEVLI2
1Tarsus Devlet Hastanesi Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon Ünitesi, Mersin, Türkiye
2Dokuz Eylül Üniversitesi, Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon Fakültesi, Kardiyopulmoner Fizyoterapi Rehabilitasyon Anabilim Dalı, İzmir, Türkiye
Non-specific neck pain is defined as pain in the posterior and lateral part of the neck between the superior nuchal line and the spinous process of the 1st thoracic vertebra, without any neurological findings or obvious structural pathology. It is more common in women than men. Neck pain is thought to affect upper extremity functions. It is known that the most affected functions are dexterity, grip strength, proprioception, and reaction time. The exact cause is unknown but it has been reported that mechanical loading, minor peripheral nerve damage and deconditioning affect the upper extremity functions negatively and reduce the quality of life in individuals with neck pain. Although it is stated in the literature that patients with neck pain often experience upper extremity problems, there are limited studies evaluating the relationship between the neck and upper extremity. Anahtar Kelimeler : Non-spesific neck pain, Upper extremity functions, Hand dexterity