Muscle Morphology and Its Role in Chronic Neck Pain: A Review Article

Introduction: Chronic neck pain (CNP) is a common and debilitating condition that significantly impacts quality of life, productivity, and overall well-being. Muscle morphology, particularly in the deep cervical muscles, plays a critical role in the onset, development, and persistence of chronic neck pain. This review investigates the relationship between muscle changes, including atrophy, fat infiltration, and alterations in muscle fiber composition, and their contribution to cervical instability, pain, and functional limitations.Methods: The review examines existing literature on muscle morphology in CNP, focusing on the role of deep cervical muscles in the pathophysiology of neck pain. It also highlights how factors such as disuse, changes in neural activation, and chronic inflammation exacerbate these muscle alterations. The role of advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI, in identifying these changes is also discussed.Results: Alterations in muscle morphology, including atrophy and fat infiltration, contribute to weakness and reduced spinal stability, which are key factors in the development and persistence of chronic neck pain. Neural activation changes and chronic inflammation further exacerbate muscle degeneration. Advanced imaging techniques, particularly MRI, play a crucial role in assessing these morphological changes and enabling personalized treatment strategies.Conclusion: Muscle degeneration, including atrophy and fat infiltration in the cervical spine, is a significant factor in chronic neck pain. Effective management requires a comprehensive approach, including rehabilitation programs focused on muscle strengthening, postural correction, and ergonomic adjustments. Fat infiltration in cervical muscles is a significant marker of structural and functional impairment in cervical spine disorders. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms behind muscle changes in CNP and to develop more targeted and effective interventions.

کلیدواژه ها:

chronic neck pain ، muscle morphology ، fat infiltration ، cervical instability ، MRI ، Rehabilitation