Pre-existing cervical ligamentous laxity and post-operative infection are believed to be the main causes of Grisel's syndrome. Although it is rare, patients are advised to seek treatment early if any neck pain or fever persists. Early diagnosis is important for better treatment outcome. Initial conservative measures are advised before more invasive cervical traction is adopted.

More targeted radiotherapy should be delivered to prevent under-treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Nasolacrimal relapse of nasopharyngeal carcinoma is an advanced disease with a poor prognosis.