At Physio & Sole Clinic, our physiotherapists provide evidence-based vestibular rehabilitation to help you move confidently again.

What Is a Vestibular Disorder?

A vestibular disorder occurs when the inner ear or parts of the brain that control balance and eye movements are not functioning properly.

The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, helps detect head position and motion. When it is disrupted, signals to the brain become confused, resulting in dizziness, unsteadiness, or vertigo (a sensation that you or your surroundings are moving even though you are not). 

Vestibular disorders can affect people of all ages, but are more common in adults and seniors. They can significantly impact daily activities such as walking, driving, or even turning your head.

Common Types of Vestibular Disorders

There are several types of vestibular disorders, each with unique causes and symptoms. Common examples include:

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV):
  Caused by tiny crystals in the inner ear shifting out of place, leading to short bursts of dizziness when changing head position.

• Vestibular Neuritis / Labyrinthitis:
  Inflammation of the vestibular nerve or inner ear due to viral infection, resulting in sudden, intense vertigo and Vestibular Migraine.

• Ménière’s Disease:
  A chronic condition involving fluid imbalance in the inner ear that can cause dizziness, hearing loss, and ringing in the ears.

• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD):
  A long-term feeling of unsteadiness or motion sensitivity, often following a previous episode of vertigo or stress.

Causes of Vestibular Disorders

Vestibular disorders can develop from various conditions, including:

• Inner ear infections or inflammation
• Head injury or trauma
• Age-related degeneration of the vestibular system
• Side effects of certain medications
• Circulatory or neurological conditions
• Post-viral complications (such as after flu or COVID-19)

Understanding the underlying cause is key to effective treatment and long-term recovery.

Do Family History or Genetics Contribute to Vestibular Disorders?

While most vestibular disorders arise from infection, injury, or degeneration, research suggests that genetic and familial factors can play a role in certain cases.

• Inherited tendencies: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to balance problems or migraine-associated vertigo.
• Familial Ménière’s disease: Studies indicate that Ménière’s disease can occasionally run in families, suggesting a hereditary component linked to inner ear fluid regulation.
• Ageing and shared lifestyle: Family members may share similar environmental or lifestyle factors, such as cardiovascular health or medication use, that influence inner ear function.
  
  

However, genetics is rarely the sole cause. Most vestibular disorders result from a combination of biological, environmental, and age-related factors. A proper assessment by your doctor or physiotherapist is essential to identify the root cause.

Can Tiredness and Stress Make Vestibular Disorders Worse?

Yes. Fatigue, emotional stress, and anxiety can significantly intensify vestibular disorder symptoms.

When the body is tired or under stress, the brain’s ability to process balance signals from the inner ear becomes less efficient. This can lead to:

• Increased dizziness or light-headedness
• Heightened sensitivity to movement or visual motion
• Difficulty concentrating or focusing
• Feelings of unsteadiness or “brain fog”

In some patients, prolonged stress can even contribute to Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD), a condition where dizziness continues long after the original vestibular problem has healed.

Learning to manage stress, getting adequate rest, and following a physiotherapist-guided exercise programme can help reduce flare-ups and improve long-term balance control.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of a vestibular disorder can vary from mild to severe. You may experience:

• Dizziness or vertigo
• Imbalance or unsteady walking
• Blurred or unstable vision (especially when moving your head)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Light-headedness or a feeling of floating
• Difficulty concentrating or fatigue

If these symptoms persist for more than a few days, it’s important to seek professional assessment.

Diagnosis of Vestibular Disorders

Diagnosis typically involves a detailed medical history, symptom review, and specific clinical tests.

Our physiotherapists may work alongside ENT specialists to perform:

• Balance and gait assessments
• Eye movement tracking (oculomotor tests)
• Positional tests such as the Dix-Hallpike manoeuvre
• Functional balance evaluations to assess daily movement safety

These assessments help identify the cause of dizziness and determine the most effective treatment plan.

How Our Physiotherapists Can Help

At Physio & Sole Clinic, we offer vestibular physiotherapy in Singapore designed to restore stability and confidence.

Treatment may include:

• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT): Targeted exercises to retrain the brain and body to respond better to balance signals.
• Repositioning Manoeuvres: Specific techniques to treat BPPV by repositioning displaced inner ear crystals.
• Balance and Gait Training: Improves coordination, posture, and fall prevention.
• Education and Home Exercise Programmes: Empowering patients with knowledge and customised routines for faster recovery.

With consistent therapy, many patients experience reduced dizziness, improved stability, and restored independence in daily life.

Why Choose Physio & Sole Clinic

• Experienced physiotherapists trained in vestibular rehabilitation
• Collaborative care with ENT and neurological specialists
• Evidence-based assessment and treatment
• Personalised recovery plans tailored to your symptoms and lifestyle
• Convenient clinic locations across Singapore

Frequently Asked Questions About Vestibular Disorders

Take the First Step Towards Steady Recovery

Dizziness and imbalance can disrupt your work, travel, and confidence but help is available. Our physiotherapists are here to guide you through safe, proven techniques to restore your balance.

Book an appointment today and let us help you move with confidence again.

Stages of Golfer’s Elbow

Early Stage (Inflammatory Phase)

• Pain appears after activity but improves with short periods of rest
• Discomfort tends to return with repeated use
• Can often be managed effectively with early intervention

Later Stage (Degenerative Phase)

• Pain persists during and after activity
• Daily tasks such as turning a doorknob or brushing teeth may become painful
• Without treatment, symptoms may worsen and impact quality of life

Causes of Golfer’s Elbow Pain

The condition arises from overuse of the wrist flexor-pronator group, a set of muscles that attach to a common tendon on the inner elbow. Repetitive stress or improper technique can overload this area, leading to inflammation or degeneration of the tendon. Without adequate rest or treatment, the tendon’s capacity to withstand everyday loads diminishes, resulting in persistent pain.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow

• Pain or discomfort during gripping, twisting, or lifting activities
• Tenderness over the inner aspect of the elbow
• Weakness in the forearm or hand
• Stiffness or a dull ache extending into the forearm

How can a Physiotherapist help for Golfer’s Elbow?

Physiotherapy plays a central role in both relieving symptoms and addressing the root cause of Golfer’s Elbow. Based on the stage and severity of the condition, our team of physiotherapists will design an individualised treatment plan which may include:

• Activity modification to reduce strain on the elbow
• Manual therapy to improve mobility and reduce muscle tension
• Therapeutic modalities such as ultrasound or electrotherapy for pain relief
• Targeted strengthening exercises, with an emphasis on eccentric training of the forearm muscles — considered the gold standard for tendon rehabilitation

In addition, your physiotherapist may provide guidance on ergonomic adjustments and techniques to prevent recurrence. Consistent follow-through with the prescribed programme is essential for a full and sustainable recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions on Golfer’s Elbow

Hear from Our Patients!

girija p

I visited Kovan branch Physio and Sole clinic for my tennis elbow issue. When I called for appointment Sharlene spoke to me and she quickly arranged an appointment within a day with the available slot. Very friendly staff and empathetic too.

Charles Wong, my physiotherapist is too good and highly recommended. My tennis elbow condition has been there for past year or so. After 3-4 sessions I could feel the difference and he gives us proper details, strengthening exercises and realistic expectations. Thanks doctor for your help to get me better and feel my hands after so long.

Highly recommend this physiotherapist and the center.

Although it is a frequent tennis injury, it is more common in people who do not play tennis at all! Tennis elbow isn’t limited to athletes, it can affect anyone whose daily activities involve repetitive hand and arm movements. For example, the condition can also develop from prolonged usage of computers.

Causes and Risk Factors of Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis’ Elbow)

Lateral epicondylitis is usually caused by repetitive strain on the forearm muscles, leading to tendon irritation. Some common triggers include:

• Overuse from repeated extension of the wrist against resistance, such as in racket sports, sewing, cooking or knitting, or pickleball.
• It can present itself after a sudden bout of exertion such as heavy lifting, or performing hours of unaccustomed activity such as prolonged sewing or use of a new racket.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Tennis’ Elbow Inflammation:

• Pain at the outer elbow, when gripping or lifting.
• Pain resisted wrist extension and executing backhand techniques in racket sports.
• Pain when bending your arm or fulling extending your arm.

How Can Our Physiotherapists Help Fix Tennis’ Elbow?

 If you’re looking for a tennis elbow treatment in Singapore, our team of physiotherapists can help restore your strength and relieve the pain. Here at Physio & Sole Clinic, a management plan will be tailored depending on severity and chronicity of the injury. It is important that you follow the management plan in order to achieve optimal results.

Some modalities may include the following:

• Soft tissue massage
• Manual therapy
• Ultrasound therapy to control pain
• Prescribed exercises to restore flexibility and strength

You may also be advised on modifying your activities and on the use of a brace to reduce forces on the wrist extensor tendons.

Don’t Let Tennis Elbow Hold You Back

If you’re experiencing persistent elbow pain that’s affecting your daily activities, it’s time to take action. Tennis elbow won’t go away on its own without proper care, and ignoring the symptoms can lead to longer recovery times. Don’t wait until the pain worsens, book a physiotherapy session today and get back to doing what you love, pain-free!

Book an appointment here!

Frequently Asked Questions on Tennis’ Elbow

Hear From Our Patients!

Excellent

girija p

I visited Kovan branch Physio and Sole clinic for my tennis elbow issue. When I called for appointment Sharlene spoke to me and she quickly arranged an appointment within a day with the available slot. Very friendly staff and empathetic too.

Charles Wong, my physiotherapist is too good and highly recommended. My tennis elbow condition has been there for past year or so. After 3-4 sessions I could feel the difference and he gives us proper details, strengthening exercises and realistic expectations. Thanks doctor for your help to get me better and feel my hands after so long.

Highly recommend this physiotherapist and the center.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review! We’re glad Sharlene’s friendly assistance and Charles’ care, clear guidance, and exercises have helped you feel real improvement with your tennis elbow. Wishing you continued strength and recovery ahead!

Diastasis Recti is the separation of the abdominal muscles (rectus abdominis), resulting in a gap of more than 2.8cm in the middle of the tummy. Although this impairment can happen in both men and women, it occurs more commonly in women due to the physical changes during pregnancy. The rates of incidence range from 67% to 100% in post-partum women.

Why does it matter?

Diastasis Recti can lead to:

• Post-delivery lower back and pelvic pains
• Faulty and poor postures due to poor core muscular stabilization of the spine and pelvis
• Urinary incontinence, or uncontrolled leakage of urine
• Gastrointestinal problems such as constipation and bloating
• Abdominal hernias, the abnormal protrusion of tissue or an organ, such as the bowel, through the wall of the cavity in which it normally resides.

Who does it affect?

• As mentioned, a diastasis can occur in both men & women.
• For men, DRAM can be caused by improper exercise technique such as weightlifting without proper form, thus placing too much pressure on the abdominal wall.
• Newborns can also be born with abdominal diastasis. Such diastasis usually resolves as the baby grows.
• For pregnant women, diastasis in the third trimester is inevitable as the uterus naturally stretches to allow for the rapid growth of the baby. This in turn initiates a separation of the rectus abdominis and linea alba (connective tissue between 6 packs) to accommodate the growing baby. This separation usually heals by itself in 8-12 weeks. For many new mums, however, the gap can persist. This is because the connective tissues are no longer providing tension and stability, resulting in compromised abdominal/tummy muscles. This lack of protection and stability affects the whole body both aesthetically and functionally. Most mummies complain of frustrating post-baby tummy protrusions that would not reduce even when their baby weight is long gone.

What to look out for?

Most often, diastasis recti (DRAM) or abdominal separation can be seen with a protruding dome down the length of the tummy, particularly around the belly button. You may notice this in every day movement, such as when getting up or lying down in bed.

You can assess your tummy if you are at least 8 weeks post-delivery. A diastasis occurs when there is a gap of more than 2.8cm (around 3 fingers spacing) between the abdominal muscles.

Here are some simple steps to help you identify DRAM:

1. Lie on your back, with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
2. Place your fingers on your belly button.
3. Lift your head and neck slightly off the floor as if to do a sit-up or crunch, while tightening your abdominal muscles. Press your hand down gently between your abdominals, horizontal to your spine. If there is a gap larger than 2 to 3 finger spaces, you could have DRAM
4. Perform these tests above and below your belly button, and measure for gaps in these areas

How can a Physiotherapist help?

A proper assessment is required to determine the management plan. The aim of treatment will be to restore the function of the rectus abdominis and the surrounding core muscles, in order to stabilize the pelvis during activity and under load. As your body recovers and with better core muscles activation, symptoms such as lower back strains or pelvic pains will reduce. Musculoskeletal physiotherapists trained in the treatment of DRAM or physiotherapists specialized in pelvic floor dysfunctions can help assess and tailor a programme suited for your condition.

Our women’s health physiotherapists at Women & Children Centre will be able to assist you with  managing your pregnancy. They are able to prescribe appropriate exercises and ensuring that you will have a smooth pregnancy journey. Feel free to send in any queries to our Ask A Physio WhatsApp service or contact our Women & Children Centre at 8481 3151.

For more insights on pregnancy-related pain, explore our page on Pelvic Girdle Pain.

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS), also known as trochanteric bursitis or hip bursitis, is a condition characterised by pain and tenderness over the greater trochanter, which is the bony prominence on the side of the hip. 

Causes

• The involved structures at the outer side of the hip includes the gluteus medius and minimus tendons and the greater trochanteric bursa, which is a fluid-filled sac that helps reduce friction between the greater trochanter and the overlying muscles and tendons.
• Muscle imbalance, overuse and abnormal hip biomechanics can result in the impingement of the gluteus medius and minimus tendons and bursa onto the greater trochanter of the hip. This results in inflammation of the trochanteric bursa and tendinopathy of the gluteal muscles, which causes pain over the lateral hip.

Common Signs and Symptoms

• Pain: Typically, individuals with GTPS experience pain on the outer side of the hip. The pain may radiate down the thigh and is often exacerbated by activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or lying on the affected side.
• Tenderness: The area around the greater trochanter may be tender to the touch.
• Swelling: Some individuals may experience swelling around the hip.

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

Assessment and Diagnosis: Physiotherapists perform a thorough assessment to identify the specific factors contributing to hip pain. This may include evaluating muscle strength, flexibility, joint mobility, and biomechanics of specific activities.

Gait and Biomechanical Analysis: Physiotherapists may analyse the individual’s gait (walking pattern) and biomechanics to identify any abnormalities that could contribute to hip pain. Corrections and modifications can then be suggested.

Education: Physiotherapists can educate patients about GTPS, its causes, and strategies for symptom management. This may include advice on modifying activities, improving posture, and adopting proper body mechanics to reduce stress on the hip.

Manual Therapy: soft tissue release to tight muscles, cryotherapy, therapeutic ultrasound and joint mobilisation may be employed by physiotherapists to reduce pain, relieve muscle tension and improve mobility.

Exercise Prescription: Tailored exercise programs are designed to address muscle imbalances, strengthen weak muscles, and improve flexibility. Specific exercises may target the muscles around the hip joint, including the gluteal muscles, hip abductors, and core muscles.

FEMOROACETABULAR IMPINGEMENT (FAI)

Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) is a hip joint disorder characterised by abnormal contact between the femoral head (the ball-shaped top of the thigh bone) and the acetabulum (the hip socket). This abnormal contact can lead to friction, pain, and potential damage to the hip joint. FAI is often classified into 3 main types: cam impingement (excess bone on the femoral head), pincer impingement (extra bone extends out over the normal rim of the acetabulum) and combined (both cam and pincer are present).

Causes

• Structural Abnormalities: FAI is commonly associated with structural abnormalities in the hip joint, such as a misshapen femoral head or acetabulum, leading to improper joint mechanics.
• Genetics: There may be a genetic predisposition to FAI, where certain individuals are more prone to developing abnormal hip anatomy.
• Repetitive hip movements: Activities that involve repetitive hip motion or excessive hip flexion, such as certain sports or occupations, may contribute to the development of FAI.

Common Signs and Symptoms

• Hip pain: individuals may experience persistent pain in the groin or outer hip. Pain may be exacerbated by activities that involve hip flexion, rotation, or prolonged sitting.
• Limited range of motion: Individuals with FAI may experience stiffness and a reduced range of motion in the hip joint.
• Painful clicking or catching sensation: some individuals may also complain of a clicking or catching sensation in the hip joint, especially during certain movements.

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

Patient education and activity modification: The physiotherapist can advise you to modify or avoid certain activities or positions that aggravate symptoms, which promotes healing and prevents further damage.

Pain management: Heat therapy and mobilisation of the hip joint may be employed to alleviate discomfort. Specific stretching exercises can also reduce stiffness in the hip.

Gait analysis: your physiotherapist may assess and correct gait abnormalities, which can contribute to hip pain in individuals with FAI.

Individualised exercise program: Your physiotherapist can design personalised exercise programs to address muscle imbalances and improve hip joint stability through specific strengthening exercises targeting the hip muscles.

During pregnancy, your body undergoes multiple physiological changes, which includes the following:

• Hormonal change:

In preparation for childbirth, a hormone called relaxin is released, which relaxes the ligaments in the pelvis, and softens and widens the cervix.

• Postural and mechanical change:

As your baby grows bigger, your center of gravity shifts, which may lead to the lower back overarching. Your abdominal muscles are also stretched and become less activated.

These changes may unfortunately lead to lower back pain or pelvic girdle pain. It is estimated that more than two-thirds of women experience these pains during pregnancy. It is advisable to seek professional help early to manage and reduce existing symptoms, and ensure that they do not affect your quality of life during and after pregnancy.

Tips for pain relief:

• Stretching and strengthening exercises:

  • Pelvic tilts can help to relieve back aches
  • Pelvic floor exercises are important for core stability and continence

• Care for your back

  • Understanding proper lifting techniques
  • Managing loads and distributing loads evenly

• Get the right gear

  • A maternity support belt may help to relieve pain
  • Good footwear is important in relieving or preventing aches in your feet

• Include physical activity in your daily routine

  • Regular exercise helps to strengthens muscles in general
  • Safe exercises during pregnancy include walking, stationary cycling or swimming

How can a Physiotherapist help?

A physiotherapist can provide:

• Education on proper postures and positioning during pregnancy
• Advice on relevant maternity supports if required
• Pain relief with manual therapy to restore normal joint and soft tissue movement
• Targeted exercises to strengthen and stretch muscles
• Instructions on how to start or continue general exercise to maintain physical fitness

For more insights on pregnancy-related pain, explore our page on Diastasis of Rectus Abdominis Muscle (DRAM).

• Acute injuries: usually traumatic, such as fractures, dislocations, ligament sprains and muscle tears.
• Overuse injuries: developed over a period of time, usually associated with an increase in training intensity and frequency. Examples are stress fractures, compartment syndromes and tendon degeneration that occur due to the additional load placed upon musculoskeletal structures by increased training demands of modern day endurance events.

Early symptoms of sports injury

Some sports injuries aren’t always evident and can only be identified when the condition has worsened. Many dismiss minor symptoms thinking they’re the typical discomfort felt with training but these could be early signs of sports injury. These include:

• Swelling
• Prolonged pain
• Reduced range of motion
• Weakness with numbness or tingling
• Persistent muscle spasm
• Widespread bruising

If you are experiencing any of these sports injury signs, it is advisable to limit physical activity and seek a trusted sports injury clinic in Singapore.

Common causes of sports injury

A sports injury can result from a number of causes. The most common ones are:

• Impact or trauma.
• Improper warm up.
• Poor technique.
• Overtraining or doing too much too often without sufficient rest in between.
• Overuse of a certain group of bones and muscles, resulting in repetitive strain injuries.

Consulting an experienced sports physio in Singapore can help you identify training habits that can lead to injury and measures, as well as exercises to prevent it.

How can a Physiotherapist help?

Physio & Sole Clinic offers sports physiotherapy in Singapore for professional athletes and sports enthusiasts, including individuals with exercise-related injuries.

• Our physiotherapists will help you understand why your injury occurs and identify aggravating factors that contribute to the injury treatment.
• Sports injury treatment such as ice, soft tissue release techniques and biomechanical assessment can help reduce your pain.
• We will also help you return to sports quickly and to perform at a satisfactory level. This involves the analysis of sports -specific skills and identification of potential areas for improvement, such as poor flexibility or muscular endurance after injury. Upon evaluation, an individualised exercise programme can be developed during the physiotherapy session to enhance the individual’s recovery.

What are the signs of scoliosis?

A scoliosis will display visible effects such as:

• Shoulder asymmetry in which one shoulder appears higher than the other.
• Leg length discrepancy where one leg may appear longer than the other.
• A shift of the body to the right or the left can occur
• Waistline asymmetry in which one hip appears to be higher than the other.
• There may be a bony prominence on the back or at the ribs secondary to the rotational aspect of scoliosis.

Scoliosis in Adolescents

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) refers to scoliosis that occurs in late childhood or adolescence.

• It is a 3-dimensional deformity of the spine occurring in healthy pubertal children
• Onset is between 10 – 18 years of age.
• There is no known cause.
• It is the most common spinal deformity.
• It affects females more than males.

How does scoliosis affect a young person?

• It is primarily a cosmetic issue, but there can be potential psychological impact on a child’s growth. This is a phase that they might start to pay more attention to their physical appearance.
• As the child grows, there may be far-reaching health issues in adulthood if the scoliosis exceeds a certain angle and is left untreated, such as:
  • Increased spinal curvature and cosmetic deformity
  • Development of back pain
  • Decreased quality of life as a secondary consequence
• There can be muscle imbalances and reduced flexibility in the spine due to its curvature. Often, the back and lower limb muscles are weaker or tighter on one side more than the other. This may affect a child’s ability to participate or excel in sporting activity.
• In rare cases, a person with severe scoliosis may also develop heart or breathing issues due to the distortion and increased stiffness of the rib cage.

What are the treatment options available?

• Depending on the individual case and severity of the curve, scoliosis treatment includes:
  • Observation
  • Exercises
  • Bracing
  • Surgery

Treatment is prescribed depending on the risk of progression of the spinal curvature, which is associated to potential growth in the adolescent, as scoliosis tends to progress with periods when there is a rapid or significant change in height. Medical specialists managing patients with scoliosis will need to monitor the spinal curves regularly to ensure it does not progress into adulthood.

How can a physiotherapist help?

• A trained physiotherapist can prescribe appropriate and customized exercises depending on the severity of the scoliosis and the risk of progression.
  • Physiotherapy management programmes will include one or more of the following:
    • Physiotherapy Scoliosis Specific Exercise (Schroth)
    • Posture awareness
    • Pain management and Stretching / Strengthening exercises
    • Activity recommendations (e.g. Swimming)
  • A physiotherapist can also discuss the bracing options if necessary.

Feel free to send in any queries to our Ask a Physiotherapist Whatsapp Service at 98997967. Our physiotherapists will be ready to assist you.

Quick Overview on Wry Neck

Wry neck, also known as acute torticollis, is a sudden painful stiffness of the neck where the head tilts or locks to one side — most often noticed upon waking. It is typically caused by a locked facet joint or disc-related nerve irritation in the cervical spine.

At Physio & Sole Clinic, our AHPC-registered physiotherapists provide hands-on, evidence-based treatment for wry necks, including manual therapy, soft tissue massage, and tailored neck exercises. Most patients experience significant relief within 1–3 sessions, with full recovery typically achieved in 1–8 weeks depending on the underlying type.

What is Wry Neck?

Wry neck — medically known as acute torticollis — is a painful condition in which the neck becomes suddenly stiff and the head tilts or rotates involuntarily to one side, making it extremely difficult to move. The term “torticollis” derives from the Latin words tortus (twisted) and collum (neck).

It is one of the most common acute neck presentations seen in physiotherapy clinics in Singapore. The condition can affect people of all ages but is particularly prevalent in adults aged 20–40, and frequently appears after sleeping in an awkward position, a sudden movement, or exposure to cold droughts.

While the experience can be alarming — especially when the neck locks so severely that you cannot turn your head — wry neck is rarely dangerous and typically responds very well to physiotherapy treatment.

What are the Types of Wry Neck?

What Causes Wry Neck?

Common causes include:

• Sleeping in an awkward position
• Poor posture (prolonged desk work)
• Sudden neck movements
• Muscle strain
• Cervical joint irritation
• Stress-induced muscle tension

Less common but serious causes:

• Cervical disc herniation
• Infection
• Tumour
• Cervical spine fracture

What are the Symptoms of Wry Neck?

• Sudden neck pain
• Head tilted to one side
• Difficulty turning the head
• Muscle spasm
• Stiffness
• Shoulder discomfort
• Pain when driving or checking blind spots

Red flag symptoms (seek urgent care):

• Fever
• Severe headache
• Arm numbness or weakness
• History of trauma

How Does Physiotherapy Help with Wry Neck?

At Physio & Sole Clinic, physiotherapy focuses on addressing the root cause of muscle spasm and joint restriction.

Step 1: Detailed Assessment

• Cervical mobility testing
• Muscle tension evaluation
• Postural screening
• Neurological screening (if needed)

Step 2: Pain Relief & Manual Therapy

• Gentle joint mobilisation
• Soft tissue release
• Muscle relaxation techniques

Step 3: Targeted Exercises

• Neck mobility exercises
• Stretching tight muscles
• Strengthening deep neck stabilisers

Step 4: Ergonomic & Lifestyle Advice

• Workstation setup correction
• Sleep posture guidance
• Prevention strategies

What Results Can You Expect?

Most patients experience:

• Pain reduction within 1–3 sessions
• Improved neck movement within 1 week
• Full recovery within 1–2 weeks (for uncomplicated cases)

Chronic or recurrent cases may require longer management.

When Should You See a Physiotherapist or Specialist?

You should seek help from a physiotherapist if:

• Pain lasts more than 48 hours
• Neck stiffness restricts daily activities
• Pain radiates into shoulder or arm
• Symptoms recur frequently

See a doctor urgently if:

• Fever is present
• Severe headache
• Arm weakness
• Recent trauma

Wry neck (acute torticollis) may feel sudden and alarming, but it is usually highly treatable with early and appropriate care. Prompt physiotherapy can relieve pain, restore neck movement, and address the underlying joint or disc irritation to reduce recurrence.

If your symptoms persist, limit your daily activities, or keep returning, don’t wait for it to worsen. Book an appointment with Physio & Sole Clinic today for a thorough assessment and personalised treatment plan to help you recover quickly and safely.

Frequently Asked Questions on Wry Neck

The rotator cuff consists of a group of muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder joint, which provides stability during shoulder movement. A rotator cuff injury may present as a dull aching pain inthe shoulder, and the pain may worsen when the arm is lifted away from the body. Rotator cuff injuries are common in people with occupations that require them to perform repetitive overhead movements, including athletes such as tennis or badminton players. The risk of developing a rotator cuff injury increases with age, and it often occurs in people aged 50 years or above.

Causes

• Trauma to the shoulder
• Progressive degeneration (wear and tear of tendon or soft tissue)
• Repetitive overhead activity
• Repetitive heavy lifting

Common Signs and Symptoms

• Deep, dull ache in the shoulder
• Weakness when lifting or rotating your arm
• Pain at rest and at night, particularly if lying on the affected shoulder
• Difficulty in tying up or combing hair
• Difficulty in reaching behind back

How can a Physiotherapist help?

• Our experienced physiotherapists can assess your condition for an accurate diagnosis, as well as check for injury to other structures around the shoulder joint.
• He or she will then manage your symptoms by tailoring a customized treatment plan, which typically involves a combination of the following:
  • Restoration of range of movement and improve shoulder flexibility
  • Improving muscle strength and joint proprioception to reinforce stability
  • Reinforcement of muscle recruitment
  • Ultrasound therapy
  • Sports taping
• Rehabilitation can also be function-specific or sport-specific depending on your goals. Our physiotherapists will ensure a safe transition in your recovery to doing what you do best.

Shoulder rotator cuff injuries can be debilitating. It is best to seek help early. Feel free to send in your queries to our Ask a Physiotherapist Whatsapp Service at 9899 7967, or call us at 9126 8257 to arrange an appointment. Let our physiotherapists help with the management of your rotator cuff pain!

FROZEN SHOULDER

Also known as adhesive capsulitis, this is a condition where the tissues surrounding the shoulder joint become inflamed and tight, causing pain and restriction in movements of the shoulder.

Frozen Shoulder happens in 3 stages:

Freezing

• Pain is worst at this stage. The shoulder does not feel very stiff but it becomes too painful to move the shoulder.
• This stage usually lasts between 6-12 weeks.

Frozen

• Pain is reduced but the shoulder feels stiff and tight. Daily activities such as combing the hair or scratching the back may be difficult.
• This stage usually lasts between 4-6 months.

Thawing

• The shoulder starts to feel less stiff and gradual return of shoulder motion is expected.
• This stage can usually take anywhere between 6 months to 2 years.

Causes

• The primary cause is still unknown.
• Frozen shoulder usually affects those between 40-60 years of age. Women have an increased risk as compared to men.
• Previous shoulder injury or surgery puts you at risk of developing frozen shoulder.
• Several medical conditions increase the risk of developing a frozen shoulder, such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Parkinson’s Disease and obesity.

Common Signs and Symptoms

• Dull or achy pain and stiffness around the shoulder joint.
• Difficulty in daily activities such as reaching overhead, combing the hair, reaching for the back pocket or hooking bra.
• Most often, sleeping on the affected shoulder brings on discomfort.

How can a Physiotherapist help?

• Identifying the stage of the condition is important as different stages require different approaches to deal with the symptoms. Whilst an X-Ray/MRI/Ultrasound scan can help with the diagnosis, it is not an absolute necessity. Coupled with a good record of past symptoms, our physiotherapists can carry out a physical examination to accurately identify the stage that the patient is suffering from.
• Depending on the severity of condition, our physiotherapists can customize and guide you in managing the condition. If pain medications, injections and anti-inflammatory drugs are needed to manage the pain (especially in the Freezing Stage), we can refer you to a doctor to get the necessary treatment.
• Physiotherapy sessions comprise of stretching and manual therapy which can improve the range of motion, especially during the Frozen and Thawing Stages. In addition, the physiotherapist can advise on exercises to achieve good posture, and modification of activities to better manage the condition. Exercises will also be given to help you improve any further range or strength deficits you may have.