Neck pain is a common condition affecting people of all ages globally, from mild discomfort to chronic issues. Whether it’s caused by poor posture, trauma, or degeneration, osteopathic treatment may offer relief.
Common Causes of Neck Pain
Typically, neck pain can result from:
- Biomechanical issues such as poor posture or repetitive strain.
- Trauma such as falls, motor vehicle accidents and whiplash injuries
- Degeneration and arthritis, leading to restriction of movement and pain.
Symptoms of Neck Pain
Symptoms of neck pain can vary in location, intensity and mode of onset. Common symptoms may include:
- Pain when moving the neck: this can range from a dull ache to a sharp pain (or both)
- Pain in the upper or lower neck
- Pain on either side of the neck (or both)
- Headache
- Pain in the shoulder, arm or upper back
- Restriction of neck range and quality of motion
- Occasionally, disturbance of sensation in the arm such as numbness and tingling
How Can Osteopathy Help with Neck Pain?
Many people experiencing neck pain seek the assistance of an osteopath. By taking a thorough history and examination, osteopaths can determine the cause of your neck pain and the appropriate treatment.
Osteopathy may provide neck pain treatment by targeting the underlying causes or contributing factors of pain and restriction. Osteopaths consider areas like the upper back, shoulders, ribs, and jaw that can all affect neck function and use techniques such as joint mobilization/articulation, soft tissue therapy, and stretching to restore function and range of motion in the neck, upper back, and shoulders. Customised exercises are often prescribed as part of the treatment to strengthen and stretch muscles and help prevent future pain. By determining the factors that may be contributing to your neck pain, osteopaths can also provide recommendations and advice to alleviate your neck pain. This may be as simple as suggesting an appropriate supportive pillow or providing you with ergonomic advice for your workstation.
In some cases, further investigation such as an X-ray, MRI or referral to another specialist may be required.
If you are struggling with neck pain, our experienced osteopaths at Lower Plenty Osteopathy are here to help. Call us on 94395596 or book an appointment online and see how we may help you get back to feeling your best.
