WHO: Neck pain is a common condition that affects most people at some point in their lives. In most cases, neck pain is not caused by a serious problem.
CAUSE: In most cases, it is not possible to identify the exact cause of neck pain.To understand what has triggered your neck pain it can be useful to look at ‘lifestyle factors’:
- poor quality and quantity of sleep,
- muscle tension in your neck
- low levels of physical activity,
- stressful periods of life
- sedentary lives, g. sitting at an office desk or watching TV on the sofa.
Trauma can also be a factor – falls, contact sports ie rugby tackles and car accidents (Whiplash) can also result in neck pain.
SYMPTOMS:
- Muscle tightness and spasms
- Decreased ability to move your head
- Pain that’s often worsened by holding your head in one place for long periods, such as when driving or working at a computer
- Headache
DIAGNOSIS: A complete medical history and physical examination can usually identify factors that may be causing the pain. Neurological tests can help determine any nerve involvement.
INVESTIGATIONS: Investigations are not usually required for mechanical neck pain however if there are any concerns we will refer to your GP.
TREATMENT:
Having a combination of treatments will give you the best chance of resolving and managing your neck pain.
- Hands-on manual therapy
- Exercise programme
- Acupuncture
- Massage
Your physiotherapist will also help you to understand what’s causing your pain so you can take steps to manage it.
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