Neck pain

Neck pain is becoming more common due to increased screen time on computers and phones.

Neck pain is typically non-specific. Some recognized ‘syndromes’ that cause neck pain are postural dysfunction, wry neck and whiplash.

Structures that are likely to cause pain are the cervical discs, apophyseal joints, ligaments, muscles and neural structures. As with any soft tissue injury, all components may be involved to some extent.

Patients with mechanical neck pain typically also have a postural component to their condition. In some patients, pain is caused by posture alone. Common postural faults seen in the neck region include chin protrusion, usually as a result of prolonged forward head posture (e.g. working at a computer screen).

In the older patient, osteoarthritis may affect the apophyseal joints causing pain and stiffness. Any associated symptoms in the upper arm such as pins and needles, numbness or weakness may be an indication of nerve root involvement. This can be as a result of either degenerative change and/or disc protrusion.

A thorough examination by your Physiotherapist can help determine the likely cause(s) of your neck pain. When the sources of pain are identified, they can be addressed with targeted treatment.

If you are experiencing neck pain and would like us to help you get back to your best, then make a booking today!