Neck pain is one of the most frequently reported complaints of the musculoskeletal system. In the general population, up to 30-50% of adults experience the problem at least once per year.

The neck serves as a flexible connection between your head and the rest of your body and contains many important nerves and blood vessels. While the neck is connected to the spine, it is not as sheltered as the rest of the backbone. This explains why it is prone to problems that can compromise motion and lead to neck pain. Some of the most vital structures of the neck are the vertebrae, cervical spinal cord, vertebral discs, muscles, nerves, ligaments.

Neck Pain Causes & Symptoms

Pain can come from a number of disorders and diseases and can involve any of the tissues in the neck. Examples of common conditions are neck strain, neck injury (whiplash), poor posture, degenerative disc disease, cervical spondylosis, spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis, a herniated disc or cervical radiculopathy (pinched nerve). It can also come from conditions such as fibromyalgia, rare infections (tuberculosis, osteomyelitis) or meningitis.

Although neck symptoms can vary widely, the most common symptoms are:

• Stiff neck
  
• Sharp pain
  
• Radiating pain
  
• Tingling, numbness or weakness
  
• Headaches
  

Neck Pain Treatment

Most symptoms can be treated with nonsurgical methods, with self-care at home and/or with guidance from a medical professional. 

If neck pain is not debilitating and didn’t start as the result of trauma, then often the pain can be treated by oneself with rest, ice/heat, over the counter medications, massage.

If neck pain lasts more than two weeks or keeps coming back, or if there are other different symptoms then it is important to consult a medical professional like a physiotherapist, for an evaluation. During an assessment at Total Retstore, your physio will take time to understand your symptoms and create a tailored plan to correct your problems and solve your pain. Some of the neck pain treatment options available in our clinic may include the following:

1. Soft tissue massage
   
2. Acupuncture and dry needling
   
3. Joint mobilisation techniques
   
4. Stretching and strengthening exercises
   
5. Kinesiology tape
   
6. Ergonomics.
   

Every treatment is guided by up-to-date research and evidence. If you would like to make an appointment with one of our physiotherapists, then call  0161 833 3008 or email info@totalrestore.co.uk. We are located in the city centre in the Royal Exchange building just off St Ann’s Square.