Understanding neck pain
From tension to stiffness, we aim to support what holds your head high.
What a pain in the neck!
At Williamstown Health and Lifestyle, we understand how frustrating neck pain may be. Whether it’s stiffness when you wake up or sharp, shooting pain when you try to turn your head, a sore neck has the ability to affect every part of your day.
With so many vital structures packed into a small area, the neck may be particularly vulnerable to strain, stress, and injury. However, that small area is incredibly important, so if it begins to hurt, it’s a good idea to seek care.
If neck pain is slowing you down or stopping you from doing what you love, our experienced team is here for you. Our goal is the same as yours– to help get you moving freely again with our personalised, hands-on care.
All about neck pain
If neck pain is affecting your life, you’re not alone– neck pain is the reason for nearly a third of all trips to the emergency room, and it affects people of all ages and lifestyles.
Neck pain is discomfort or pain anywhere in the cervical spine– the area from the base of your skull to the top of your shoulders. Sometimes it has a relatively ‘simple’ cause, like poor posture, but in some cases it may indicate an underlying medical condition.
Common causes of neck pain include:
- Muscle strain
- Muscle tension
- Poor posture
- Sleeping in an uncomfortable position
- Using a computer for too long
- Whiplash
- Facet joint irritation
- Pinched nerves
- Bulging discs
- Herniated discs
- Arthritis
- Cervical spondylosis
- Stress or anxiety-related tension
Neck pain may also radiate to your shoulders, arms, or head. Whether your pain radiates or is confined to your neck, it’s important to have it assessed by a qualified healthcare professional like our team at Williamstown Health and Lifestyle.
Symptoms of neck pain
Symptoms of neck pain vary depending on the cause, but may include:
- Stiffness
- Reduced range of motion
- Dull ache
- Muscle spasms or tightness
- Tingling or numbness in the arms or hands
- Headaches or migraines
- Difficulty sleeping due to discomfort
Even if your symptoms seem minor, it’s worth getting assessed early. This is because neck pain has the potential to affect so much of our daily lives, from working to playing with the kids– and you don’t want to miss out on that! Early intervention also typically leads to faster recovery, and we understand how important this is to you.
Neck pain treatment options
At Williamstown Health and Lifestyle, we take the time to investigate what may be causing your neck pain, what your goals are, and how we can work together to potentially help you feel better.
Depending on your needs, your neck pain treatment options may include:
- Physiotherapy
- Osteopathy
- Massage
- Myotherapy
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Pilates
- Shockwave therapy
Your neck pain questions answered
How long does neck pain take to heal?
The time it takes for neck pain to heal will vary depending on the cause, how long you’ve had it, and whether there are any underlying issues like disc problems.
In many cases, mild neck pain from muscle tension or poor posture may improve within a few days with appropriate care, stretches, and rest. However, more complex cases may take several weeks or months to resolve. In any case, working with a physiotherapist helps to ensure you’re addressing the root cause instead of just the symptoms, potentially leading to faster recovery.
Can neck pain cause headaches?
Yes, neck pain tends to cause headaches for some people. When the muscles and joints in your upper neck become tight or irritated, they may ‘move’ (refer) pain to the head and trigger what’s known as a cervicogenic headache.
If you’re experiencing frequent headaches alongside neck stiffness, it’s a good idea to have a physio assess your cervical spine and posture, as relieving neck tension may help to reduce your headaches.
Can I exercise if I have neck pain?
It depends on the type and severity of your neck pain. In general, gentle movement and targeted exercises may help maintain mobility and circulation, which may aid in healing. That said, it’s important not to push through sharp or worsening pain.
We’ll advise you on the appropriate level of activity for your current condition and provide you with exercises designed to support your recovery. Sometimes, small posture adjustments or work set-up changes may also make a big difference in how your neck feels during exercise and your daily activities.
Is there anything I can do at home to help?
If your neck pain is mild, there are several things you may want to try at home, such as:
- Heat and ice packs
- Gentle neck stretches
- Taking breaks from sitting at a computer
- Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication
If the pain worsens or doesn’t improve within a few days, it’s best to have a physio asses you.
Why Williamstown Health and Lifestyle?
Support that moves with you
Our physiotherapists work with all kinds of people, tailoring care that suits your body, history, and goals.
Friendly team
We’ve helped thousands of locals get back to what they love, and we’d love to help you, too.
Free shockwave therapy
We offer shockwave therapy at no cost because we’ve found it often helps speed up recovery.
Looking to say goodbye to neck pain?
Neck pain doesn’t have to be a permanent part of your life. Whether it’s been bothering you for days or months, we’ll work with you to create a personalised treatment plan designed to get you back on track. Book your appointment with our team at Williamstown Health and Lifestyle today!