Many people suffering from a Neck Disorder will often describe the feeling of a "Heavy Head". The head feels as though it is too heavy for the neck to hold up, usually more so towards the end of the day. Sufferers will also speak of being unable to lift their head off the pillow, or of having to use their hands or a soft collar to support their head at times.

Causes

The cause of a "Heavy Head" is usually weakness of the muscles which support the neck and head. This weakness may arise from nerve damage, muscle damage, poor posture or repetitive activities. The muscles may be inhibited by pain or neural problems, or fatigue may set in towards the end of an activity.

Commonly muscles become weakened around the neck following trauma, such as Whiplash, Sporting Accidents or prolonged postures over a computer or desk.

In patients who experience neck pain, the discomfort often leads to altered movement patterns, reduced physical activity and ultimately further neck weakness

Treatment

Classically patients presenting at the Melbourne Whiplash Centre complaining of a Heavy Head respond very well to our neck strengthening program.Treatment for the "Heavy Head" must include specific strengthening of the neck muscles. Any evidence of poor postures must be addressed with education and exercises, and mobilising or stretching may be used to help relieve any pressure on nerves. If the muscles are being inhibited by pain, then pain relieving modalities such as medications (anti-inflammatory or analgesic), electrotherapy, rest, heat or ice may be used.

However the primary cause of this pain must be identified and treated appropriately to avoid recurrence.

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