The movement of a body part in the posterior direction, i.e. backwards. (Also movement of a protracted body part back to the anatomical position.) Uncrossing arms and allowing them to rest at either side of the body; retraction of clavicles.
However, stiff neck is also a symptom of meningitis (along with headache and fever). Neck stiffness may also develop as a reaction and result of muscle spasm in various conditions that cause neck pain, including traumatic injuries. Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 3/30/2015.
A stiff neck may result from muscle strain. Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images. Symptoms of a stiff neck include soreness, pain and difficulty turning your head. You may also experience headaches and shoulder or arm pain in conjunction with a stiff neck. In most cases, a stiff neck results from muscle strain and goes away in a few days with rest and proper care. However, a stiff neck may indicate an infection or serious damage to your spine. Consult your physician for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.