Why Is My Neck Sore….?

Causes

Neck pain is a common problem, with two-thirds of the population experiencing Neck Pain  at some point in their lives. Waking up with neck and shoulder pain is a common problem. Persistent use of your arms i.e. driving or computer use can present in a similar fashion. Sources of neck pain may include muscular tightness in the neck and upper back or pinching of the nerves emanating from the cervical spine (neck); resulting in pins and needles and/or numbness. Joint dysfunction in the neck and upper back can cause pain in this region. Physiotherapy can rectify this using either manual therapy or very specific exercise therapy, depending on the cause of pain.

TIP:

Avoid postures that increase either the pain or pins and needles. Support the arm if you find this gives you relief. Seek treatment from your chartered physiotherapist as early as possible to ensure a speedy recovery.

  • Headache
  • Whiplash
  • Thoracic Spine

The neck can be a source of headache. The muscles of your upper back attach onto the base of your skull. If they become tight they can pull on the joints of the upper cervical spine, compressing local tissues and causing headaches. Pain that is generated from this area is primarily experienced in the head and side of the neck. This type of headache is very common in office workers and drivers with poor posture i.e the “chin poke” posture. In these situations, re-aligning or mobilising these upper neck joints and muscles often alleviates your headache, combined with posture and ergonomic education.

           TIP:

            For those working at a computer pain in this region can often be the result of sitting with your keyboard or screen slightly off centre. Ensure that these two items always directly in front of you.

 

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