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Salon sink radiculopathy: a case series
T P Stitik1, S F Nadler, P M Foye
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, USA.
American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
|July 27, 1999
Summary
Patients with cervical radiculopathy should avoid salon hair washing. This common activity can exacerbate symptoms due to neck hyperextension, potentially requiring medical intervention.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Orthopedics
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- Cervical radiculopathy involves nerve root compression in the neck.
- The Spurling test diagnoses cervical radiculopathy by narrowing neural foramina.
- Patient education is key in managing cervical radiculopathy symptoms.
Observation:
- A common salon hair-washing posture involves neck extension, rotation, and side-bending.
- Stylist manipulation and mild compression during shampooing can cause neck hyperextension.
- Two patients experienced exacerbated cervical radiculopathy after salon hair washing.
Findings:
- Salon hair washing can reproduce or worsen radicular symptoms.
- Neck hyperextension during salon treatments is a potential trigger for symptom exacerbation.
- Steroid treatment was required for two patients following this activity.
Implications:
- Patients with cervical radiculopathy must be warned about the risks of salon hair washing.
- Healthcare providers should inquire about salon practices during patient consultations.
- Preventative advice can help patients avoid iatrogenic exacerbation of cervical radiculopathy.