Step into our exclusive feature delving into neck discomfort, a prevalent issue with significant implications for our everyday lives. Whether you find yourself glued to a computer screen, logging extensive hours behind the wheel, or simply grappling with the accumulated tensions of contemporary living, neck pains can swiftly transform into a formidable challenge.

Within this two-part exploration, we’ll extensively examine the manifold facets of these discomforts, tracing their origins through to potential treatment avenues. This month, our emphasis lies in comprehending neck pain, tackling common queries surrounding its essence, origins, and intensity. 

As we shift to the subsequent article, we’ll adopt a proactive stance, scrutinising methods for both treatment and prevention, with a particular spotlight on the pivotal role played by physiotherapy.

Prepare to unravel the complexities of neck afflictions and uncover pragmatic approaches to regain both comfort and mobility!

 

Part 1: Understanding Neck Discomfort

This initial section is dedicated to a thorough understanding of these discomforts that may at times seem elusive. What triggers these debilitating sensations in the neck? How can they be identified? What is their potential severity? This month, we will delve into these crucial questions to provide you with the necessary knowledge for a better understanding of your own situation.

Whether you’re grappling with acute or chronic discomfort, it’s time to unveil the mysteries surrounding neck sensations and take informed steps toward your well-being.

 

Neck Pain: how to recognise it?

The majority of neck pains or cervical pains are ordinary and generally not indicative of anything serious; they are usually caused by contractions in the muscles of the neck or shoulders. Nonetheless, it is crucial to conduct a thorough assessment to identify their exact origin, enabling the physiotherapist to provide effective treatment. 

Cervical pain, located at the back of the neck, originates from one of the components of the neck: muscles (torticollis), tendons, ligaments, nerves, cervical vertebrae, and remains localised in the neck region.

Neck pain may also radiate towards the middle of the back and shoulders. Although the neck can generally move, limitations may be observed when the patient turns their head from side to side, flexes, or extends it. This restriction can offer valuable clues to a neck specialised physiotherapist regarding the source of the pain.

Neck pain may be accompanied by occasionally bothersome symptoms such as:

• Pain in the posterior aspect of the neck
• Stiffness in the neck and/or the nape
• Spasms
• Headaches/migraines
• Eye fatigue
• Difficulty in moving the neck and head
• Irradiation or tingling in the arm or hand

 

Causes of neck pain: identifying the triggers

Neck pain can stem from various sources, including improper posture during work or leisure activities (common among office workers), sudden neck movements, extended periods behind the wheel or in front of a computer, and sleeping in an awkward position. Additionally, anxiety, stress, arthritis, neck trauma, compression of one or more nerves, or injuries such as car accidents (whiplash), falls, improper sports movements, or blows received for various reasons can contribute to neck discomfort.

It’s not unusual for neck pain to extend to an arm, leading to cervico-brachial neuralgia. This occurs when a contracted muscle or another structure slightly compresses a nerve, causing not only neck pain but also discomfort or tingling in the arms or even fingers.

The three most prevalent causes of acute neck pain include:

• Torticollis: A muscular contraction located in the neck, often resulting from trauma, fatigue, or stress.
• Cervical Arthritis: Common among individuals over 50 with worn intracervical cartilage.
• Traumatic Episodes in the Neck: Such as whiplash from a car accident, head impact, repeated sports injuries, or improper handling.
• Cervical Sprain: An immediate reaction to events where the cervical vertebrae were excessively stressed. Consulting a physiotherapist is essential to identify and address the various tensions imposed by the body following such events (falls, whiplash, etc.).

 

Frequency of neck pain: is it common?

Neck pains are common due to the constant demand on the cervical region in its role of supporting the head and facilitating a variety of movements related to the torso, such as directing the gaze towards visual objectives.

 

What is the typical duration of neck pain?

If you experience recurrent neck pain or if the discomfort persists for 1 to 2 weeks, it is recommended to consult with a physiotherapist specialised in neck issues. Ignoring neck pain could increase the risk of developing cervical arthritis, which is irreversible.

 

How to assess the severity of neck pain?

If your neck pain is particularly intense and extends to your arms, it’s a sign of seriousness that should prompt you to seek medical attention promptly. Neck pain accompanied by fever, nausea, and/or vomiting should also raise alarms. Once again, a swift intervention for cervical pain symptoms will make it easier for your physiotherapist specialised in neck issues to treat them effectively, liberate you from the pain, and prevent future occurrences.

 

Acute or chronic neck pain?

Neck pain is termed acute if it lasts for less than 6 months; beyond this duration, it is considered chronic. This underscores the importance of not delaying physiotherapeutic treatment for neck pain. Once established, chronic neck pain takes much longer to recover, necessitating prolonged physiotherapy rehabilitation. So, take care of yourself, and don’t wait to initiate rehabilitation with your physiotherapist specialised in neck pain!

 

Article written by the team of physiotherapists at London Home Visit Physiotherapy.

If you have questions for our physiotherapist specialised in neck pain, call 0207 125 0262 or visit our website: https://www.londonhomevisitphysiotherapy.com/physiotherapy/london-neck-pain-physiotherapy-whiplash/