Area involved · Neck pain
3D anatomical model: Male Full Body Ecorche by Diego Luján García, licensed under CC BY 4.0 (colours changed).
What is it
Neck pain can appear as stiffness, discomfort between the shoulder blades or pain spreading down the arm. It is often linked to prolonged postures, tension and lack of movement.
What can cause it
- Long hours at the computer or on the phone
- Whiplash or trauma
- Irritation of a nerve root (cervical radiculopathy)
- Stress and muscle tension
How we treat it
- Assessment of neck and upper back mobility
- Manual therapy and mobilisations
- Exercises for neck and shoulder control, strength and endurance
- Practical advice on workstation set-up and active breaks
What to expect
Mobility and pain usually improve within the first weeks, and results are consolidated with an exercise programme you can also do at home.
How to prevent it
- Change position often
- Train neck and upper back muscles
- Set up your workstation well
Do I need rehabilitation?
Recommended if pain lasts more than one or two weeks, spreads down the arm or follows trauma such as whiplash.
This page is for information only and does not replace an individual clinical assessment.