Worldwide, neck pain is becoming increasingly common, with around two-thirds of people experiencing neck pain at least once in their lifetime. Research indicates that neck pain is more prevalent to those suffering from anxiety or depression, and those working in offices with poor screen and keyboard positioning.
Neck pain can result from several things, such as muscle strains, sprains, arthritis, nerve damage, car accidents, and even cancer. If you experience chronic neck pain, it can affect your ability to perform daily tasks and cause long-term problems.
Chronic neck pain can result in significant disability, reduced quality of life, and increased healthcare costs. Several treatments are available, one of which is physiotherapy.
Common causes of neck pain
The neck can be painful due to dysfunction in several different structures. The discs and facet joints are the two most common structures that cause pain. When these structures are harmed, the surrounding muscles and ligaments tighten, causing even more pain in the affected area.
Muscle and soft tissue sprains are also common causes of neck discomfort, especially when the body has been exposed to unexpected forces, either through athletic activities or by being in an awkward position for an extended period.
The 7 most common types of neck pain
- Muscle pain
- Muscle spasm
- Headache
- Facet joint pain
- Nerve pain
- Referred pain
- Bone pain
When to see a physiotherapist for neck pain relief
Physiotherapy for neck pain relief may be advantageous in a variety of situations, including:
Recovering from surgery
Some neck procedures can cause considerable pain and stiffness in the weeks and months that follow. An anterior cervical discectomy with fusion (ACDF) operation, for example, involves the fusion of two or more vertebrae in the neck, which can change the movement of several neck and upper back muscles. As the muscles are reconditioned, physiotherapy may assist in working through tightness, increase neck movement, and lessen or prevent uncomfortable spasms.
Chronic neck pain
When neck pain persists or recurs, determining the exact source or mechanism of pain can be challenging. Even in the absence of a diagnosis, strengthening the neck muscles may better support the cervical spine and become more pain resistant.
Acute neck pain
Acute neck pain can range from mild to moderate and is typically exacerbated by head and neck movement. Sleeping can be difficult if the neck is painful to touch. The neck pain may be the result of a specific incident. Often, acute neck pain arises from an unexpected incident or trauma, such as a quick turn of the neck, a blow to the head or sleeping in an awkward position. On infrequent occasions, severe pain may be caused by a painful medical condition.
Healing from an injury
When the soft tissues and joints of the neck are damaged, such as when whiplash occurs, pain and/or tightness can last for weeks or even months. A physiotherapy treatment program can help relieve neck pain and restore optimal neck range of motion.
What do physiotherapists do for neck pain?
One of the most common treatments for chronic neck pain is physiotherapy. The majority of physiotherapy programs for neck pain involve using treatments to sufficiently reduce pain and tight muscles and begin an exercise program of neck strengthening and stretching.
At Australian Sports Physiotherapy, we treat neck pain with a targeted, hands-on, holistic approach, followed by a rehabilitation program to restore your body and spine to optimal function.
Does physiotherapy work for neck pain?
Physiotherapy is frequently referred to as one of the most effective treatments for chronic neck pain. It can not only help you manage your symptoms better, but it can also help you improve the flexibility, mobility and strength of your neck muscles.
How can I permanently relieve neck pain?
In physiotherapy, our primary goal is to resolve your problem using a holistic approach to treatment permanently. Generally, we consider a combination of manual therapy techniques, massages, stretches and gentle strengthening to be the best approach to treating neck pain.
As a result of years of experience working with patients with spinal disorders, our physiotherapists focus strongly on exercise rehabilitation and self-management strategies. One of our experienced physiotherapists will also show you how to sit, stand, and move properly to avoid future problems.
Final Thoughts on Neck Pain Physio
Physiotherapy aims to reduce pain, improve movement and strength, and help you function better daily. Physiotherapy can also help you manage your condition and avoid future painful onsets.
As previously stated, exercise is an essential component of your treatment. It can help you manage pain, poor posture and perform daily activities more comfortably. Depending on your condition, your physiotherapist will recommend specific exercises for neck pain as part of your treatment plan.
Book an appointment with Australian Sports Physiotherapy Today to Assess your Neck Pain.
