The computed tomography (CT) examination using the analysis of a cross-sectional area was performed. For a study, the researchers sought to determine the relationship between upper quadrant pain and disability and the cross-sectional area (CSA) and density of neck muscles (sternocleidomastoid, upper trapezius, levator scapulae, anterior scalene, longus coli, and longus capitis). Around 230 patients suffering from neck pain were sent to CT scans. Of these, the majority of them had met the criteria for inclusion and exclusion. The CSA and the muscle density values were extracted from the scans after conducting interviews with the subjects. Muscles that were associated with temporary impairment of the shoulders, arms as well as hand-questionnaire (QDASH) comprised the posterior group lateral LPG CSA C3-C4 on the right side (beta=-0.31, P=0.029); the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) CSA C3-C4 on the left (beta=0.29, P=0.031); the LPG CSA C3-C4 on the right side (beta=-0.49, P=0.000); the LCM CSA C5-C6 on the right side (beta=-0.19, P=0.049); the LPG CSA C5-C6 on the right side (beta=-0.36, P=0.012); and the LPG CSA C5-C6 on the left side (beta=-0.42, P=0.002). Additional outlines, which included the role of radiculopathy in augmenting or enhancing variables (moderator) which revealed the more robust analysis (r2=0.25) and better predictions of disability and pain. The muscle measures were not predictive of the neck disability index (NDI) scores. Researchers found a link with an CSA of the neck’s superficial and deep muscles, as well as discomfort and impairments within the upper extremities using precise measurement devices. The neck and shoulder muscles were under stress when working manually. The next research study should have looked at the effectiveness of exercises-based intervention programs that increase the strength of the neck’s deep as well as the upper extremities to avoid the fatigue of muscles.

Link:journals.lww.com/spinejournal/Abstract/2022/03150/Upper_Quadrant_Pain_and_Disability_Associated_with.11.aspx