Simon a 54 year old professional flutist presented at my clinic with left neck and shoulder pain. It began following heavy gardening two days prior. He described the pain as dull and painful on certain movements. Simon stated during his consultation that he suffered from general tightness around his upper shoulders and put this down to years of playing and teaching the flute.

On examination it was noted that there was lack of movement in the upper part of his back and also that his neck movement was also reduced especially turning to the left. The muscle around his shoulders and neck especially on his left side was extremely tight.

On the first treatment soft tissue techniques were used to release the tension around the shoulder area with mobilisation techniques to increase the range of movement within the upper back and neck. The next appointment Simon stated that his pain in his neck and shoulder had reduced but was still feeling very stiff in his upper back. Work continued, focusing on the upper back injury, to increase the mobility in the neck and upper back and reduce muscle tightness. This time attention was focused on the movement of the rib cage and the diaphragm which have direct connection with the upper back and neck. Articulation was applied to the ribs and techniques to relax the diaphragm were also used.

The next session Simon reported a marked improvement in the upper back and also stated that he noted that was able to take in more air into his lungs and hold his notes for far longer. I proceeded to explain how the ribs attached to the vertebra of the spine and how they move in relation to one another. Any restriction, within the vertebra of the upper back (from a direct or indirect upper back injury), could have an impact on the excursion of the ribs. As the ribs help in the mechanism of breathing any restrictions within this area could have a profound effect on the way you breathe and how the lungs and the diaphragm work.

Exercises and stretches were given to help keep the muscles supple and the joints mobile.

Although Simon presented with a neck pain following gardening, due to the osteopathic global approach to the body Simon was not only able to continue his daily activities but through osteopathic treatment improve this flute playing.

To find out more information about upper back problems please click the link below:

Upper Back Injury