Patient Overview:
Patient X, a 64-year-old active female and dedicated care worker, presented to Synergy Physiotherapy in late 2024 with symptoms of mechanical neck pain. Despite maintaining a healthy lifestyle—including weekly personal training sessions and regular outdoor swimming—her condition deteriorated. This began to impact her ability to do her job which involved heavy lifting of clients, driving to different locations and long hours spent on her feet.
The Challenge:
Initially presenting with neck pain, Patient X’s symptoms gradually worsened over several weeks, developing into referred pain, numbness, and weakness in her hands. She received dry needling and massage at Synergy Physio which reduced the restricted muscles around her neck and upper back and relieved her day-today neck pain and was given advice on her injury and a tailored exercise programme that that focused on neck and upper back strengthening and nerve exercises to combat the numbness and weakness in her hands.
Despite several successful sessions in her treatment and a noticeable difference in her strength, her condition sharply deteriorated. She began experiencing severe neck pain, restricted mobility, and more widespread neurological symptoms affecting both hands—indicators of potential spinal cord involvement. These red flag symptoms required immediate escalation.
The Solution:
Our initial approach focused on symptom relief through a combination of dry needling and sports massage, targeting tight musculature in the neck and upper back. These treatments reduced pain and improved tissue mobility. A tailored exercise program was also introduced, with a focus on neck and upper back strengthening, alongside nerve gliding techniques to address the neurological symptoms in her hands. Lifestyle and ergonomic advice helped her modify daily habits to avoid symptom aggravation.
When red flag symptoms emerged, the clinician acted swiftly by writing an urgent referral for an emergency scan. Patient X was sent for an MRI scan and referred to a neck specialist. The diagnosis was confirmed as a cervical myelopathy, and surgical intervention was recommended.
Patient X underwent a cervical laminectomy, with her pre-operative physiotherapy playing a critical role in building strength and resilience ahead of the procedure.
Results:
Post-surgery, Patient X experienced a significant reduction in pain and neurological symptoms. Thanks to the strength she gained through pre-operative physiotherapy, her recovery has been smoother, and everyday tasks—like dressing and writing—have become easier. At her two-week post-operative review, she showed excellent early progress and has now begun her formal rehabilitation phase with confidence.
The spinal consultant praised the conservative management provided at Synergy, noting that without early intervention, her condition could have resulted in serious long-term neurological damage.
Key Takeaways:
- Early detection of red flag symptoms is crucial. Even subtle signs can indicate serious underlying issues.
- Multidisciplinary teamwork and proactive communication between patient and practitioner enabled fast, appropriate escalation.
- Pre-operative physio matters: building strength before surgery helped Patient X recover faster and more effectively.
- Patient education and empowerment were key to both symptom management and long-term recovery.
- Every session counts—what starts as a routine appointment can uncover something more complex. Open communication is essential.
At Synergy Physiotherapy, our commitment to holistic, evidence-based care and early intervention made a significant difference in this patient’s journey—from pain and uncertainty to recovery and renewed hope.
