Neck pain is a very common condition presenting to Physiotherapy especially amongst office workers. People of any age can experience neck pain. Neck pain may also present with headaches or pain, pins and needles or numbness in the arm. it can refer to your shoulders and chest

 

What are the characteristics of activities that cause neck pain?

• Sleeping in a bad position
• Sustained postures- sitting or standing in the same position for hours
• Overusing neck muscles when you have a shoulder or arm injury

 

Signs and symptoms of neck pain

• Pain with moving your neck
• Often gets worse as the day goes on
• May be sore and stiff in the morning
• Headaches- see headaches
• Pain, pins and needles or numbness in the arm- see cervical neural irritation or cervical nerve root compromise
• Neck pain is a symptom of whiplash injuries- see whiplash

 

What does the science say?

• Move! Don’t stay in any position for too long
• Take regular rest breaks throughout the day

 

How can Physiotherapy help?

Your Physiotherapist will be able to:

• Help you identify aggravating activities
• Guide you stretches and mobility exercises to reduce pain, improve function
• Provide manual therapy to reduce pain, tightness and improve movement