Neck Pain Perth
General Info
Neck pain is a common problem, with almost two-thirds of the population experiencing neck pain at some point in their lives. In the Perth CBD, we find that neck and shoulder pain is extremely common in office workers.
Although the pain is felt in the neck, it can be caused by numerous other spinal problems. Neck pain may arise due to muscular tightness or joint stiffness in both the neck and upper back, and/or pinching of the nerves emanating from the cervical spine.
The neck is surrounded by several muscles which arise from the lower neck and upper back, attaching to the base of the skull. These muscles work to support to the weight of the head and allow a large range of motion. This large amount of muscle activity unfortunately makes the neck vulnerable to injury and disorders which cause pain.
Common Disorders in the Neck
Cervicogenic Headache
This disorder originates from the neck and is one of the most common types of headaches, typically occurring due to activities which place excessive stress on the upper joints of the neck. Patients with this condition usually experience a gradual onset of neck pain and headache during the causative activity. In the Perth CBD we find this to be an extremely common condition that our team of Physiotherapists are very well equipped to help with.
Cervical Disc Bulge
Cervical discs are located between the each spinal vertebrae in the neck. When the jelly-like substance inside protrudes due to a tear in the outer layers of the disc, this is called a ‘disc bulge’ or ‘protrusion’.
These are commonly caused by activities which are repetitive or forceful in nature, such as bending the neck forwards, poor posture, activities using your arms in front of your body (e.g. Driving) and lifting.
Facet Joint Sprain
Each vertebra in the spine connects with the vertebra above and below via the facet joints, which are designed to support body weight and enable spinal movement. Facet joint sprains typically occur during excessive bending, slouching or twisting movement of the neck, with pain being experienced suddenly during the causative activity.
Wry Neck (Facet & Discogenic)
A wry neck is a relatively common condition characterized by sudden onset of pain and severe stiffness in the neck or upper back. The injury can originate from either a ‘locking’ of the facet joints or damage to one of the discs in the neck. A wry neck usually occurs either upon waking in the morning or due to a specific activity often involving a sudden, quick movement of the neck or heavy lifting.
Whiplash
Whiplash is the term given to an acceleration / deceleration injury of the neck. This may cause damage to numerous structures within the neck and commonly occurs in motor vehicle accidents, where the neck is thrown forcefully forwards, then backwards. It can also occur in high contact sports like rugby and football following a forceful collision.
Treatment
Our Physiotherapy and Chiropractic team are very experienced in the treatment of neck pain. Physiotherapy and Chiropractic can not only reduce neck pain, but can also look at preventative measures and help to identify the root cause of the neck pain. We will be able to then show you the best long term strategies to overcome your neck pain.
Common Physiotherapy and Chiropractic treatments include:
- Joint mobilization and manipulation (specialised joint loosening techniques)
- Soft tissue and trigger point massage
- Specific neck stretches
- Heat therapy (e.g. heatpacks specially designed neck pain)
- Postural correction, taping and bracing
- Exercises to improve flexibility, strength and posture
- Ergonomic advice – optimising workstation and car seat set-up
- Clinical Pilates and Group Reformer Pilates – to improve strength and movement ability
- Functional Movement Training and Group Functional Training – to improve strength and movement ability
- Education on activity modification and appropriate pillows for sleeping
Ready to get rid of your neck pain with the help of one of our experienced Physiotherapists?
Ready to get rid of your neck pain with the help of one of our experienced Chiropractors?
Getting an ergonomic assessment and adjusting your workstation is also recommended to reduce excessive forces on your neck.
General Ergonomic tips for good sitting posture
- Have the top of the monitor at eye level if you look at the keyboard to type; for touch-typers, have the
top third of the screen at eye level - Arms should be resting on desk at right angle
- Keep your both feet even on the floor or on a footrest
- Choose a chair with a good back support and no arm rests
- Get up from your desk every hour, walk around & stretch
- Tuck your chin in to reduce “compression” of nerves at base of skull
- Keep your back in contact with the backrest of your chair – don’t perch!
For further information on having a Bodysmart Physiotherapist attend your workplace to set up your workstation please contact us online call on 9481 8708.
