WHAT IS NECK PAIN?
Neck pain is the pain located in the upper part of the spine. The pain might spread from the neck towards the shoulders or upper back, and may even go to the arms. It may signify that the joints, muscles or other parts of the neck are injured, strained or not working properly. Many people suffer from neck pain, approximately half of all individuals having it at some time in their lives. But this is not always a sign of arthritis or any other serious medical problem.
WHAT ARE COMMON NECK PAIN SYMPTOMS?
You may feel pain in the middle or on either side of your neck, but it may also extend to the shoulder or to the upper chest.
WHAT ARE COMMON CAUSES OF NECK PAIN?
- Poor posture (sitting, standing, or sleeping)
- Stress
- Tension
- Injuries
- Prolonged sitting (such as in front of a computer)
- Arthritis
- Due to aging
WHICH TREATMENTS ARE RECOMMENDED TO REDUCE NECK PAIN?
Streching exercises- Heat/ice packs
- Remedial Massage. Book an appointment now
- Physiotherapy
- Traction
See a doctor immediately if the pain comes and gets worse quickly, especially when there are additional symptoms such as vomiting, dizziness, losing weight, tingling or numbness in the arms or legs, sweats and chills or problems swallowing.
WHAT SHOULD BE AVOIDED IF I HAVE NECK PAIN?
- Inactive
- Prolonged sitting and poor postures
- Avoid sleeping on your stomatch
REFERENCES:
Fejer R, Kyvik KO, Hartvigsen J. The prevalence of neck pain in the world population: a systematic critical review of the literature. European spine journal. 2006 Jun 1;15(6):834-48.
Chronic Neck Pain n.d., Physiopedia, viewed 23 Oct 2019, < https://physio-pedia.com/Chronic_neck_pain>
Better Health Channel n.d., Neck pain, Victoria State Government, viewed 23 Oct 2019, < https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/neck-pain>