Neck Pain
Common Causes of Neck Pain
Neck pain can be caused by dysfunction of multiple structures within the neck. The most common structures that can lead to neck pain are the cervical discs and the facet joints. Once these structures are affected they cause the surrounding muscles and ligaments to become tight, causing even more discomfort within the area.
Common causes of neck pain can also relate to muscle or soft tissue sprains (for example, whiplash) where the body has been exposed to unexpected forces, through sporting activities. Even from instances where an awkward position is maintained for a long prolonged period of time. I think most of us have awoken at some point in the morning with a wry neck!
Common Neck Pain Symptoms
Neck pain is one of the most commonly treated injuries at Thrive Physiotherapy. Neck pain is often associated with neck pain, headaches and pain radiating down from the neck to the arm. There are many structures that could be the leading cause of the pain. Common symptoms that should be evaluated by a physiotherapist include:
Sharp neck pain
Tight muscles that restricts head movement
Pain that travels down the shoulders, arms and hands
Headaches or migraines
Can physiotherapy help?
Physiotherapy treatment of neck pain includes hands-on treatment to help reduce pain and restore motion; exercises to restore function; and muscle retraining to restore strength and endurance. Neck pain can persist for some time and be quite debilitating if not managed well. Therefore, getting advice early is always the best option.
