Neck Pain

WHAT CAUSES NECK PAIN?

Your head is heavy and balanced on a narrow support made up of seven bones called vertebrae. The vertebrae are seperated from each other by discs, stabilised by joints and ligaments and moved by muscles. Because the neck is so mobile, it is easily damaged. Injury and postural problems are the most common causes of neck pain. Diseases such as arthritis or degeneration of the discs can also cause pain.

Neck Injuries
Neck injuries most often result from motor vehicle, sports or occupational accidents. Damage may occur to vertebrae, joints, nerves, discs, ligaments and muscles. A common neck injury is the acceleration/deceleration injury or 'whiplash' where the head is thrown forward or backward

Posture
Bad posture can cause neck pain. Ligaments are over-stretched, muscles become tired and the neck joints and nerves are put under pressure.
Slouching your shoulders with your head pushed forward, sleeping with your head in an awkward position, or working with your head down for long periods, will all tend to cause or worsen neck pain.

PREVENTING NECK PAIN
Here are some useful advice to help you control and prevent neck pain:

Posture
Think tall: chest lifted, shoulders relaxed, chin tucked in and head level. Your neck should feel strong, straight and relexed.

Sleeping
A down pillow or a urethane pillow is best for most people. Avoid sleeping on your stomach. We can assess and advise you.

Relaxation
Recognise when you are tense. You may be hunching your shoulders or clenching your teeth without realising it.

Work
Avoid working with your head down or to one side for long periods. Frequently stretch and change position. We will show you how.

Exercise
Keep your neck joints and muscles flexible and strong with the correct neck exercises. We will assess for tight or weak muscles and show you specific exercises to treat your situation.

How Physiotherapy Can Help
We will be able to determine the source of your neck pain and treat it. We may use:Mobilisation.Manipulation.Functional and Rehabilitative exercises.Encouraging normal activity.Postural assessment, correction and advice.Relaxation therapy.Massage.