Neck Pain

If you are one of the many Australians that suffers with neck pain, neck ache or neck stiffness, you will be pleased to know that Physiotherapy may offer the solution you have been searching for.

Neck pain is very common with about one in 10 people having it at any given time.  This comes as no surprise when we consider the activities of modern life such as sitting in front of a computer, watching prolonged periods of television and an increasing incidence of poor posture – particularly forward head posture.

Problems within the neck can also cause headache, shoulder pain, TMJ or jaw pain, pins and needles in the hands, carpal tunnel syndrome and upper back pain.

We encourage you to contact us for a thorough assessment with one of our Physiotherapists if you regularly experience any of the following:

  • Persistant neck ache first thing in the morning
  • Neck stiffness when reversing in the car
  • Clicking neck noise when turning
  • Constant aching neck muscles
  • Tingling in your hands or fingers

Causes of Neck Pain

  • Poor posture
  • Whiplash
  • Arthritis
  • Sporting injuries

Treatment for Neck Pain

Thankfully, Physiotherapy offers a very effective treatment for neck pain.  After assessing you, your Physiotherapist will recommend a course of treatment that aims to reduce pressure, restore movement and prevent recurrence.  Typically, your Physiotherapist will recommend the following:

  • postural advice and how to avoid further strain
  • a series of spinal mobilisations to restore proper movement to the neck vertebrae
  • massage to tight neck muscles
  • neck exercises to encourage improved movement
  • neck strengthening exercises
  • heat/ice therapy to help manage your neck pain
  • recommend a contoured pillow to provide correct support while sleeping.

Treatments are tailored to the individual case usually consisting of spinal and soft tissue mobilisation, strengthening exercises, stretching and heat/cold therapy.