Understanding neck pain
The neck supports a heavy head through a large range of movement, and it is sensitive to sustained postures, stress and how the upper back behaves beneath it.
Most neck pain is mechanical, meaning it varies with position and movement. That is reassuring, because mechanical problems respond well to changing load and improving movement.
Signs you might notice
- Stiffness turning your head or checking blind spots
- Aching at the base of the skull or between the shoulder blades
- Headaches starting at the neck
- Pain worsening through a working day
- Occasional referred symptoms into the arm
Common contributing factors
- Long periods at a desk, laptop or phone
- Reduced mobility in the upper back
- Weakness in the deep neck and shoulder blade muscles
- Stress and disturbed sleep increasing muscle tension
- Previous injury such as whiplash
How we assess and treat it
We assess the neck alongside the upper back and shoulders, because the neck often takes the strain of a stiff thoracic spine. The DIERS scan gives us an objective picture of posture and spinal position rather than a subjective glance.
Treatment combines hands-on work for immediate relief with the strength and mobility changes that stop it returning.
- Hands-on treatment and joint mobilisation
- Soft tissue work, dry needling and myofascial release
- Mobility work for the upper back
- Strengthening for the neck and shoulder blade muscles
- Practical workstation and phone habit advice
Common questions
Can neck problems cause headaches?
Yes. Headaches arising from the upper neck are common and often respond well to treatment aimed at the neck rather than at the head.
Is my posture to blame?
Posture matters less than variety. Any position becomes uncomfortable if held long enough, so we focus on movement and capacity rather than a single perfect posture.
Should I use a special pillow?
Sometimes it helps, but there is no universally correct pillow. We would rather work out what your neck needs than sell you a product.