The neck is part of a long flexible column, known as the spinal column or backbone, which extends through most of the body. The cervical spine (neck region) consists of seven bones (C1-C7 vertebrae), which are separated from one another by intervertebral discs. These discs allow the spine to move freely and act as shock absorbers during activity.

A traumatic cervical injury occurs more commonly in males than females, with the highest prevalence in ages 15 to 30 and older than 65 years. The most common mechanisms in children younger than 15 years are motor vehicle accidents, falls, and sports-related injuries.

Most cases of chronic neck pain have a postural component as part of the underlying problem. The longer that poor posture is continued—such as being hunched over a computer or slouching on the couch—the more likely that neck pain, stiffness, and other symptoms may develop. In such cases, recognizing and understanding poor posture can play an important role in finding neck pain relief.

Causes:

The most common causes of neck pain heal within a few days or weeks. Many cases of strains and sprains result from overuse or overextension, such as from:

• Poor posture: Long periods of time spent slouching or hunched over a computer screen can lead to forward head posture, which places extra stress on the neck. Repeatedly looking straight down at a phone or tablet may also cause pain.
• Sleeping in an awkward position
• Repetitive movements: Turning the head in a repetitive manner, such as side to side while dancing or swimming, may lead to overuse of the neck’s muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
• Trauma: Examples include any type of fall or impact, such as a sports collision or whiplash from an auto accident.

Symptoms:

Neck pain symptoms can vary widely. The pain may just be a mild nuisance, or it could be so excruciating that a person avoids any excessive movement.

Sometimes neck pain is located in one spot and goes away on its own within a few days or weeks. Less commonly, the pain becomes constant and/or radiates into other body parts, such as the shoulder and arm. Occasionally an injury to the neck musculature/joints can cause headaches, known as tension headaches (from muscles) or cervicogenic headaches (from joints).

If neck pain symptoms progress, it can become difficult to sleep. Neck pain may also interfere with other daily activities, such as getting dressed or going to work, or any activity that involves turning the head, such as driving.

How can Physiotherapy help?

Physiotherapy aims to reduce pain and stiffness, improve neck range of motion, develop dynamic strengthening of the neck and its supporting musculature, and develop strategies to prevent pain from recurring. Even if pain cannot be completely eliminated, physiotherapy plays an important role in improving neck posture and function for daily movements.