NECK PAIN
Neck pain is one of the most common conditions that we see at Whittlesea Physiotherapy. It is becoming more prevalent due to our modern lifestyle as we spend a significant amount of time sitting at a desk, in a car, or hunched over our tablet, laptop computer and / or telephone. Poor posture and prolonged periods of time spent in the same position result in an increased load on the spine, ligaments, discs and nerves. Muscles can also fatigue, which will add further stress to these structures.
Most neck problems are not due to a specific incident but are caused by a combination of factors such as poor posture, lack of exercise, bad habits, stress and wear and tear (arthritis). However, there are some neck problems that result from trauma, such as whiplash or a sports injury. Some of the symptoms that can be associated with neck conditions include:
- headaches
- pain radiating into the arms and shoulders
- TMJ (jaw) dysfunction
- mid and lower back pain
- tingling and / or numbness into the arms
- Weakness in the arms and hands
Physiotherapy can successfully treat many neck conditions, and get you off the pain killer roundabout. A thorough assessment is essential to identifying the cause of your neck pain, including all contributing factors. This will ensure our focus on the long term health of your neck and relapses can be prevented and minimised. We will develop an individual treatment plan for you, based on your goals and what you wish to achieve from your physiotherapy treatment.
We have an array of treatment techniques available to tackle your neck pain, giving us the best chance of providing you with an optimal treatment outcome. These include:
- Joint mobilisation
- Soft tissue mobilisation
- Dry Needling
- Traction
- Muscle energy techniques
- Postural education
- Activity advice and modification
- Exercises and other self management techniques
- Electrotherapy
As is the case with each condition we manage, our physiotherapists will liaise with your referring practitioner (e.g. GP) when necessary to ensure your health needs are met at all times.
Should you be suffering from neck pain, or believe you are at risk of developing future neck symptoms, please call our clinic for an appointment. Our experienced physiotherapists will provide the best service possible so that the very best result can be achieved, allowing you to return to all your daily activities pain free.