About Neck Pain
Pain across the wider area of the neck, head, and upper back at shoulder level is characteristic of Neck Pain, also referred to as Cervical Syndrome. It encompasses a range of conditions or states that give rise to various symptoms in the area. Assessment by an Orthopaedic Physiotherapist is essential so that the appropriate interventions can be made for the patient's benefit, as every patient presents differently.
Symptoms of Neck Pain
Depending on the case, the broader symptoms that may be encountered in neck pain conditions include:
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Muscle spasms
• Referred pain — pain that radiates
• Pain in the joints of the neck
• Neuropathic pain
• Restricted neck mobility
• Deterioration in the patient's quality of life
Factors That Predispose to Neck Pain
The following can predispose a person to developing neck pain:
• Excessive load on the muscles. Sitting for many hours places more demand on the neck muscles than they are able to handle, causing symptoms
• Weak muscles. Muscles that have not been strengthened sufficiently to manage the daily load they are required to bear
• Wear and tear of the neck joints, which is a natural process from certain ages onwards
• Nerve compression — due to a disc, bone spurs, or muscle spasms
• Injuries — following an accident
• Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and others
• A demanding work environment
• Smoking
• A history of low back pain
Differential Assessment
Assessment by an Orthopaedic Physiotherapist is required, involving a full medical history, clinical examination, and clinical tests, in order to investigate the type and causes of the neck pain, which may relate to:
• Neck pain with movement deficits
• Neck pain with coordination deficits
• Neck pain with headaches
• Neck pain due to radiculopathy
• A serious condition that is referred to a Doctor
What Will Happen if Neck Pain Is Left Untreated
If not treated appropriately, a chronic condition may develop with symptoms such as:
• Chronic pain
• Worsening of symptoms
• Muscle weakness
• Functional limitations
• Deterioration in quality of life
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Physiotherapy is essential for managing neck pain. Initially, acute pain is addressed with orthopaedic manual massage and electrotherapy, which produce immediate results. A suitably tailored structured exercise programme is then introduced to strengthen the muscles, correct posture, and protect against future recurrences. The interventions applied are:
A structured exercise programme for neck pain includes:
• Shoulder muscle strengthening
• Deep cervical flexor strengthening
• Breathing exercises
• Proprioception exercises
Schedule Your Appointment
Verified user
He examined my neck thoroughly and was very detailed in explaining what I am dealing with. He truly understood how much this pain affects my daily life. He helped me effectively — I trust him completely.
Verified user
He dedicated a great deal of time to the neck pain that has been troubling me for a long time. I am already feeling much better just one day later. I will continue with the treatments — he is an excellent professional with a wealth of knowledge. I recommend him wholeheartedly.
Giota S.
He knows his field very well, spent a lot of time on my problem, and truly earned my trust! I will definitely recommend him!
How Can I Prevent Neck Pain
Preventing neck pain requires a monthly programme that includes:
• Orthopaedic manual massage
• A structured exercise programme
More tips on prevention and self-management can be found at the links below:
• Recomendations for Patients by American Physical Therapy Association
• Recomendations for Patients by American Physical Therapy Association
• Recomendations for Patients by American Physical Therapy Association
• Recomendations for Patients by American Physical Therapy Association
• Recomendations for Patients by American Physical Therapy Association
What Is the Cost of Treatment
The cost of treatment is not high. Typically 6 sessions are required, during which the treatment programme is adjusted each time to reflect the patient's current condition. Once symptoms have subsided, a structured exercise programme is introduced to prevent any recurrences. The programme is provided to the patient electronically so they can follow it independently, with the option of online supervision at a low cost. The patient has the ongoing support and communication they need with the Physiotherapist to address any difficulties.
For the management of neck pain, call PhysioDanali today for specialist advice from your Physiotherapist!
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Kopkow C, Freiberg A, Kirschner S, Seidler A, Schmitt J. Physical examination tests for the diagnosis of posterior cruciate ligament rupture: a systematic review. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2013 Nov;43(11):804-13. doi: 10.2519/jospt.2013.4906. Epub 2013 Oct 11. PMID: 24175598.
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