Neck pain is something that impacts several individuals of all ages. There are numerous reasons why someone may need physiotherapy for neck pain, and it is crucial to seek the help of a medical professional if it occurs for more than one day.
Stiff neck therapy can have a tremendous impact on our lives, enabling us to get back on our feet and prevent the pain and discomfort from getting worse. Our services at BPC Physio can restore mobility and get you back to full health in no time.
Common causes of neck pain needing treatment and physiotherapy are:
Understanding Different Types of Neck Pain and What Causes Them
There are many reasons a person might require the expertise of a physio for neck pain. Sometimes, the pain might be subtle, but if it is left unchecked, it is likely to become chronic and have a significant impact on daily life. Here are some of the most common reasons people come to BPC Physio for neck pain treatment:
Muscle Strain – The reasons for muscle strain range from sudden movements to prolonged sitting or poor posture. Often, it will go away without neck pain treatment, but physiotherapy can prevent it from happening again.
Cervical Disc Degeneration – This is when someone experiences excessive wear and tear on their spinal discs and can cause extreme stiffness and pain.
Whiplash – Caused by sudden acceleration and deceleration, whiplash can lead to enormous discomfort, and it is often crucial to seek neck pain treatment to ensure a fast and complete recovery.
Cervical Spondylosis – This often affects older people and is caused by too much pressure on the spine over an extended period.
Postural Neck Pain – This has affected more people in recent years and is caused by the prolonged use of smartphones or devices without efficient ergonomic support.
Exploring Physiotherapy Treatments for Stiff Neck Pain at BPC Physio
When you visit BPC Physio for neck pain relief, our team of highly qualified, professional physiotherapists will use a range of techniques to ensure the root cause of the problem is addressed. Our neck pain therapy is tailored to the specific needs of every client, helping to prevent the problem from reoccurring in the future. Before we carry out physiotherapy for neck pain, we will conduct an in-depth assessment to ensure we know how to tackle your specific issue.
The neck pain treatment and physiotherapy you will receive will likely include a number of joint mobilisation and soft tissue techniques. These non-invasive and gentle movements massage and stretch the affected area to relieve tension, reduce pain, and enhance mobility. Afterwards, our physiotherapists will walk you through therapeutic exercises to perform at home until your next stiff neck therapy session.
When You Might Need Physiotherapy for Your Neck Pain
If you are experiencing pain in your back, neck, or shoulders for two or more days, it is essential to contact your physiotherapist to see if you need professional neck pain therapy. Additionally, if your pain radiates, you have suffered a recent injury, or your mobility is limited, contact your physiotherapist immediately. Neck pain can quickly become one of the most debilitating conditions, so never overlook the need for stiff neck therapy from a professional physiotherapist.
Neck Pain FAQs
Neck pain is concerning when it is accompanied by severe or persistent symptoms such as numbness or weakness in the arms or hand, shooting pain down the arms, difficulty sleeping or sitting , problems with range of motion,vertigo, or loss movement . If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.
The main cause of neck pain is often musculoskeletal in nature, resulting from strain or injury to the muscles, ligaments,nerve or joints in the neck. Poor posture, repetitive motions, whiplash injuries, osteoarthritis and muscle tightness are common causes of neck pain. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis, as other underlying conditions can also contribute to neck pain.
Neck pain is usually not serious and often improves with conservative treatment measures such as rest, gentle exercises, and over-the-counter pain medications. However, if the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by concerning symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation to rule out any underlying conditions that may require specific treatment.
"Several illnesses can cause neck pain, including:
- Cervical disc herniation: When the cushioning discs between the vertebrae in the neck bulge or rupture, it can lead to neck pain.
- Cervical spondylosis: This is a degenerative condition that involves the wear and tear of the spinal discs and joints in the neck.
- Meningitis: Inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord can cause neck pain along with other symptoms.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: This autoimmune condition can affect the joints in the neck, leading to pain and stiffness.
-Myofascial pain syndrome : A chronic pain disorder characterized by widespread pain, including the neck region.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis if you are experiencing persistent or concerning neck pain."
Neck pain is not typically a direct symptom of heart disease. However, in some cases, heart-related conditions such as angina or heart attack can cause referred pain that radiates to the neck, jaw, or left arm. If you experience sudden or severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or other signs of a heart attack, it is crucial to seek emergency medical attention immediately.
A physiotherapist specializes in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions, including neck pain. They may perform a thorough evaluation of your neck and surrounding areas to identify the underlying causes of your pain. Treatment techniques employed by physiotherapists may include manual therapy, exercises to improve strength and flexibility, posture correction, pain management strategies, and ergonomic recommendations. The specific treatment plan will depend on the individual needs and condition of the patient.
The choice between a physiotherapist and a chiropractor depends on your personal preference and the nature of your neck pain. Both professions can provide effective treatment for neck pain, but their approaches may differ. Physiotherapists often use a broader range of treatment techniques, including exercises and functional movements, while chiropractors primarily focus on spinal manipulation and adjustments. It is recommended to consult with both professionals, if possible, and choose the one with whom you feel most comfortable and confident in their approach.
Yes, massage therapy can be beneficial in treating neck pain. Massage techniques, such as deep tissue massage, or trigger point therapy, can help reduce muscle tension, improve blood circulation, and promote relaxation in the neck and surrounding areas. However, it is important to consult with a qualified massage therapist who has experience in treating neck pain to ensure the appropriate techniques are used and to avoid aggravating any underlying conditions.
The duration of physical therapy for neck pain can vary depending on the individual's condition, severity of symptoms, and response to treatment. In general, a course of physical therapy for neck pain may range from a few weeks to several months. The frequency and duration of sessions will be determined by the physiotherapist based on your specific needs and progress throughout the treatment.
The time it takes for neck pain to heal can vary depending on the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and individual factors. In many cases, neck pain improves with conservative treatment measures such as rest, gentle exercises, and pain management strategies within a few days to a few weeks. However, for more complex or chronic cases, it may take longer to achieve significant improvement. It is important to follow the recommended treatment plan and consult with a healthcare professional for guidance throughout the healing process.