Neck pain, referred to as cervical pain, can arise from a number of disorders of any tissue in the neck, such as degenerative disc disease, neck strain, whiplash, a herniated disc or a pinched nerve.
Some common triggers for neck pain are:
- Postural strain (improper sitting position when working for long periods at a desk)
- Tension (possibly stress related)
- Heavy lifting
- Sleeping without good neck support
- Injury
Neck pain is typically associated with dull aching. Sometimes pain located in the neck is heightened when movement occurs. Other symptoms of neck pain can include numbness, tingling, tenderness, sharp shooting pain, fullness, difficulty swallowing, pulsations, swishing sounds in the head, dizziness or light-headedness, and gland swelling.
Prevention
You can do some things to try and prevent neck pain from developing:
- Learn to sit and work without bending your neck
- Take regular breaks if you work while standing or sitting for long period of time
- Get proper neck support for your car, bed, sofa and chairs
- Do not fall asleep in a sitting position
If you have seriously injured your neck you should seek medical attention immediately. However, if you experience any of, or similar, symptoms mentioned above, such as dull aching, tingling, tenderness, you may go directly to a physiotherapist for help.
Treatment
At 'physiotherapy + pilates evolved', our initial consultation considers your medical history and present lifestyle. A major part of the consultation is discovering the root cause of your pain, before treatment is prescribed. This is so we can treat the cause, not just the symptoms. Treatment is focused on pain reduction, rehabilitation and prevention. You may be given a program to do at home in order to strengthen muscles. Your physiotherapist will also be able to help you correct bad postural habits, introduce you to relaxation techniques that help reduce stress and give you helpful tips on how to reduce neck pain throughout your day to day living.