Neck pain
Effects 15%-44% of general population
Increases to 50-60% in office workers
Characterised by
Pain and discomfort
Limited range of motion
Associated headaches
Tightness throughout the day
Feels the need to constantly stretch or move head & neck
Typically musculoskeletal unless further investigations requited
Causes:
Typically musculoskeletal - meaning the cause is due to the biomechanical physical system of muscles, ligaments, tendons and skeleton.
This can include cervical spine, discs, supporting musculature or nerves in this area
May be traumatic, meaning it has developed post-injury/ accident, and indicates temporary or permanent damage to the musculoskeletal structures. Your doctor will assess this based on your history and exam findings
Most likely if it has been long standing and not traumatic in origin, it is biomechanical, meaning it has developed over a period of time, due to weaknesses, imbalances, adaptive changes due to prolonged postures. This usually results in some structures underworking, leading to other structures over working and becoming fatigued or damaged.
Prolonged postures being the main cause of this type of neck pain can include sitting at a desk the majority of your day and sleeping postures and positions.
Other causes of neck pain can include joint irritation, nerve entrapment, shoulder injuries, visceral referral or neurological conditions.
Treatment:
Thankfully, most cases of neck pain is easily treated by our chiropractors
After conducting a complete history, orthopaedic and neurological examination, your Physiotherapist will recommend a course of treatment that aims to reduce pressure, restore movement and prevent recurrence.
Typically, your chiropractor will recommend the following: a management plan of passive care, such as chiropractic, massage or dry needling appointments to decrease pain, symptoms and inflammation, lifestyle changes, rehab exercises and a long term plan strengthen, manage and optimise your performance based on what is most sustainable for you.