Body map Neck pain

Neck pain

Neck pain is very common and will affect most people at some point in their lives. Many things can cause neck pain, but it is usually not a sign of a more serious condition.

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Common causes of neck pain

Posture issues
Tension
Whiplash
Muscle strain

Wear and tear in the bones of the neck
Disc problems in your upper spine
Arthritis

Introduction

Neck pain can be mild or severe. It can also impact other parts of your body. The pain often spreads from the neck towards the shoulders or upper back, and it can cause headaches. You might find the pain is worse when you hold your head in one position for a long time (e.g., at a computer).

Most neck pain clears up by itself in a few days. It is very rarely a symptom of something more serious.

Your osteo will ask you questions about your symptoms, health history, any medications you take, your work and lifestyle. Anything that might be relevant to your neck pain. They may also take you through some physical tests, which involve certain movements or exercises. Then you will receive a treatment and management plan tailored to your needs.

Since neck pain can be caused by a variety of things, not everyone will feel better straight away. Sometimes you may be referred to another health practitioner.

Patient resources

Tips for neck pain

Everyone’s experience with neck pain is different. Try these tips to help you prevent and manage neck pain. Speak with your osteopath for more detailed advice.

Keep as mobile as you can
When carrying out repetitive tasks or heavy labour, make sure to vary your rhythm, take regular breaks and have a stretch
Drink plenty of water to keep your tissues hydrated
Eat sufficient protein to help repair tissue
Be careful when lifting
Regular exercises and stretching can have a preventive effect
Ensure you have an appropriate mattress and pillow
Make sure your children do not carry a heavy bag on one shoulder or spend too much time in front of a PC, tablet or TV

What the evidence says

Evidence suggests that osteopathic techniques, such as manual therapy and needling, may relieve neck pain, if the pain is not caused by a serious health condition. Patients may experience a reduction in pain, increased movement and relief from headaches.

References

Yu, H., et al ‘Does structured patient education improve the recovery and clinical outcomes of patients with neck pain? A systematic review from the Ontario Protocol for Traffic Injury Management (OPTIMa) Collaboration, The Spine Journal (2014); 16 (12)

Huisman, P., et al ‘The effect of thoracic spine manipulation on pain and disability in patients with non-specific neck pain: A systematic review’, Disability and Rehabilitation (2013); 35 (20)

Miller, J., et al ‘Manual therapy and exercise for neck pain: a systematic review’, Manual Therapy (2010) Aug; 15(4)

Sihawong, R., et al ‘Exercise therapy for office workers with nonspecific neck pain: a systematic review’, Journal of Manipulative Physiological Therapeutics (2011) Jan; 34(1)

Gross, A., et al, ‘Exercises for Mechanical Neck Disorders’, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (2015); 1

Ylinen, J., ‘Physical exercises and functional rehabilitation for the management of chronic neck pain’, Eura Medicophys (2007); 43

Liu, L., et al, ‘Effectiveness of dry needling for myofascial trigger points associated with neck and shoulder pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis’, Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (2015); 96 (5)

Further information

Musculoskeletal Australia