Neck Pain

If you’re one of the 30% to 50% of people who experience neck pain every year, you probably have a lot of questions. Read on to learn answers to some of the most common neck pain questions from our experienced physical therapists.

What Is Causing My Neck Pain?

This question is vital because treating your neck pain starts with figuring out what is causing it. There are many injuries and conditions that could be causing your acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term) neck pain.

Neck muscle strains are the most common cause of neck pain. They often occur when you move your neck suddenly or if you move your neck a certain way over and over. Neck strains can also be triggered by poor posture, such as sitting bent over your computer or phone for long periods every day. Often, neck strains tend to cause acute pain, but they can lead to chronic neck pain if this injury and its underlying causes are left untreated.

Neck muscle strains aren’t the only issue that could be causing your neck pain. Other common issues that could be causing your pain include:
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Whiplash.

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Bone spurs.

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Pinched nerves.

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Neck osteoarthritis.

Our physical therapists can help you pinpoint the specific cause of your neck pain. However, we recommend that you seek immediate medical care if you have:
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Severe pain that isn’t responding to at-home treatment.

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A traumatic neck injury from a car accident, an impact while playing sports, or a fall.

Are the Other Symptoms I’m Experiencing Connected to My Neck Pain?

Pain may not be the only symptom you’re experiencing if you have a neck injury or condition. There are other symptoms you could also have, including:

Headaches.

Neck muscle tightness.

Neck muscle spasming.

Trouble tilting or turning your head.

Tingling or numbness in your neck, shoulders or arms.

How Can I Treat My Neck Pain?

Often, your neck pain and other symptoms may go away after you rest and use other at-home treatments for a few days. However, we encourage you to seek physical therapy if your pain hasn’t gone away after a few days of self-treatment.

Our physical therapists create customized treatment plans that are specific to each person’s neck pain cause and treatment goals. Some PT techniques we may include in your treatment plan include:

You don’t have to continue to struggle with neck pain. Our Forever Fit team is ready to help you through every step of your journey to reduce your pain and take control of your body again.
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