Passive physical treatments for acute nonspecific neck pain

Various treatments offer temporary relief to some patients, including thermotherapy (application of heat or cold), massage, spinal mobilisation and upper thoracic spine manipulation. These treatments alone have a limited role in the management of acute nonspecific neck pain. Evidence to support their use is limited; however, consider a trial of these treatments as part of a comprehensive management approach.

The following treatments are not recommended for acute nonspecific neck pain because evidence does not support a benefit:

• low-level laser therapy
• transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
• cervical spine manipulation
• acupuncture.

Collars are ineffective for reducing pain or improving physical function in acute nonspecific neck pain, including whiplash-associated disorder.