Neck pain is so common that far too many people will ignore it altogether. It’s one thing to sleep at an awkward angle and wake up with a sore neck, but when neck pain starts to become a part of everyday life it’s time to make a change. This blog will discuss common causes and symptoms of neck pain, as well as how a physio can help and when it may be time to book an appointment. Continue reading to learn more about your neck and figure out whether you might need to schedule an assessment!
For personalised advice, contact our team at Northern Districts Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic today.
Common Symptoms of Neck Pain
Neck pain comes in all shapes and sizes. Two people coming to a physiotherapist to complain about pain in their neck could come in with completely different lists of symptoms! When experiencing neck pain, the severity can vary significantly. Some people may find their pain debilitating, the pain overwhelming their days and their limited motion making tasks as simple as driving nearly impossible.
For others, their pain may be as simple as a cramp or an ache. Pain and stiffness may come from muscles, tendons, or ligaments in and around the neck. Alternatively, issues with spinal discs and nerves could be radiating pain up into the neck. Associated symptoms of pain or stiffness may be felt in the shoulder, upper back, or jaw.
Other common symptoms associated with neck pain include headaches at the back of the head, behind the eyes, or in the temples.
What Causes Neck Pain?
Just as symptoms can vary, so can causes. Factors such as postural issues, previous injuries, and muscular imbalances can all contribute to neck pain. Acute injuries like whiplash and chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis can cause pain, but so can lifestyle habits. A physio works with all of these conditions and cases, and will be able to help you better understand what might be causing your specific symptoms.
Here are some questions to ask yourself if you’re feeling neck pain:
- Do you spend a lot of time staring at your phone or a tablet?
- Do you typically sleep on your stomach?
- Do you regularly carry a heavy bag?
- Do you work at a desk?
- Do you tend to slouch when you stand?
All of these habits can commonly result in neck pain.
When to See a Physiotherapist for Neck Pain
For many people, the ‘purpose’ of a physiotherapist can be unclear. To put it simply, a physio works with the musculoskeletal system as a whole, and neck pain of all varieties can fall under that category. If your pain is the result of natural misalignments or daily habits, then a physio will be able to provide personalised advice to help you manage those symptoms and build healthier routines.
Physiotherapists also work frequently with patients who have undergone an injury. Whether that’s a sports injury or pain following a car accident, they can help provide treatment and advice to support healing. Their understanding of the musculoskeletal system can also help with injury prevention, recovery from surgery, and chronic neck pain.
Ultimately, if you have neck pain causing you concern, then booking a physiotherapy appointment is a good choice. Don’t wait until the pain gets so serious that you have no choice but to seek urgent care. Intervene early, and see a physio for neck pain diagnosis and treatment as soon as you can.
Related Link: Can Physiotherapy Help Neck Pain?
Common Neck Pain Injuries
Physios will frequently work with patients to help them recover from a wide range of injuries. When it comes to neck pain, there are several common injuries that may be at fault. Any physiotherapist is bound to encounter each of these regularly and will have a variety of treatments readily available to support healing. Choosing physiotherapy to treat your injury is an investment for your future, as a physio will work carefully to minimise the risk of your injury being repeated.
Some of the most common neck injuries that could be causing your neck pain are:
- Whiplash
- Posture-related injuries
- Bulging discs
- Acute wry neck (also called a ‘crick’ in the neck)
- Injuries due to workplace ergonomics
Book an Appointment at NDPE for Neck Pain Treatment in West Ryde
It’s time to stop rubbing your neck and complaining about ‘sleeping funny’. You have nothing to gain from putting up with neck pain every day! In fact, leaving your neck pain unaddressed could very well lead to the symptoms worsening over time. Whether you’ve suffered an injury or simply feel the aches kick in after a long day at work, seeing a physio may help you treat your pain and alleviate symptoms.
The friendly and experienced Northern Districts Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic team has handled neck pain in countless forms. Book your first appointment today to have your pain assessed and start building towards a happier, healthier future.
