Clinical Overview
Neck stiffness (cervical rigidity) refers to reduced range of motion in the cervical spine, typically due to pain, muscle spasm, inflammation, or structural injury. It is a common post-traumatic finding but also an important clinical sign in non-traumatic neurological emergencies. In the context of fever and headache, neck stiffness (nuchal rigidity) is a cardinal sign of meningeal irritation, as seen in meningitis.
Common Causes
- Muscle strain
- Whiplash injury
- Cervical spine fracture or dislocation
- Cervical disc prolapse
- Ligament injury
- Meningitis (nuchal rigidity)
- Cervical spondylosis
- Arthritis
Investigations
- Cervical Spine X-ray (AP, lateral, odontoid views)
- CT Cervical Spine (mandatory post-trauma if fracture suspected)
- MRI Cervical Spine (for disc, cord, and ligamentous assessment)
- Neurological examination
|
🔴 RED FLAGS — Seek Emergency Care Immediately • Limb weakness or paralysis • Numbness in hands or feet • Difficulty walking or balance problems • Bladder or bowel dysfunction • High-velocity trauma mechanism • Fever with neck stiffness (possible meningitis — emergency) |