Neck Pain Treatment: What You Need To Know
Neck pain is one of the most common issues we treat at ALHACARE Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation. It often comes hand-in-hand with headaches, jaw clenching, or even shoulder tension. Whether it’s caused by long hours at a desk, stress, or lifestyle habits, the right neck pain treatment can make all the difference.
Who Is Most Affected By Neck Pain?
People who undertake certain jobs and lifestyles are more likely to experience neck pain:
- Office workers: Hours of sitting and computer work can lead to poor posture and muscle stiffness.
- Dentists and surgeons: Long periods in awkward positions put strain on the neck and shoulders.
- High-stress professionals: Stress often shows up as tightness and clenching, which contributes to headaches and neck pain.
Even everyday habits such as looking down at your phone or bottle feeding your newborn can trigger neck pain or stiffness.
Types of Neck Pain
At ALHACARE, we identify the type of neck pain you have to create the most effective physiotherapy treatment plan. The main types of neck pain include:
- Non-Specific Neck Pain (NSNP): This is the most common type and is an umbrella term for things liked to muscle tightness, joint stiffness, poor posture or imbalances.
- Nerve-related neck pain: Less common, but occurs when a disc bulge or joint inflammation compresses a nerve. This type of neck pain is characterised by tingling, pins and needles, sharp pain and weakness.
- Serious injuries: Rare cases which include fractures or severe trauma that require urgent medical attention. If you present with this, we will consult you on your next steps and facilitate your transition to a medical professional.
What Causes Neck Pain?
Understanding the underlying cause is key for lasting neck pain relief. Some of the most common things which result in neck pain include:
- Poor posture - forward head posture or slouching.
- Stress and tension - leading to tight muscles (especially your upper traps).
- Overnight clenching or grinding - influenced heavily on neck pain, but grinding may also cause headaches.
- Sedentary lifestyles - lack of movement stiffens up joints and muscles.
- Exercise injuries - incorrect lifting technique or overtraining.
- Underlying conditions - arthritis, disc issues, or pinched nerves.
Do You Need Scans for Neck Pain?
Most people with neck pain don’t need X-rays or MRIs unless there’s trauma or neurological symptoms. Physiotherapy is often the best first step to resolve pain and restore mobility.
How ALHACARE Treats Neck Pain
Our approach combines hands-on treatment, education, and customised neck pain exercises to achieve long-lasting results. Our various methods to treat neck pain include:
1. Education
We teach you the mechanics of your neck, pinpoint triggers like posture or stress, and show you how to prevent future flare-ups.
2. Soft Tissue Therapy
Targeted massage reduces tension, improves blood flow, and relaxes overworked muscles.
3. Joint Mobilisation
Gentle manual therapy restores mobility in stiff neck joints, easing pain and improving movement.
4. Dry Needling (Optional) & Cupping
This is especially effective for stubborn knots and trigger points, helping to reset muscle and nerve signals.
5. Exercise Prescription
We design tailored neck pain exercises to strengthen weak areas, improve posture, and reduce the risk of pain returning.
Pro Tip from Lewis, Director & Senior Physiotherapist
“Neck pain that lingers often leads to headaches or upper back discomfort. Addressing it early with targeted physiotherapy can prevent long-term issues and restore proper posture & mechanics.”
Simple At-Home Tips for Neck Pain Relief
While waiting for treatment, try these simple neck pain relief tips:
- Set up an ergonomic workspace - Keep screens at eye level to avoid awkward head postures.
- Take regular breaks - Stand up and stretch every 45 minutes.
- Use the right pillow - Ensure your pillow keeps your neck aligned with the rest of your spine.
- Do gentle stretches - Slow rotations and side bends can release tension.
- Stay hydrated - Dehydrated muscles and discs are more prone to stiffness.
Why Physiotherapy Is the Best Solution for Neck Pain
Painkillers or massage alone may give temporary relief, but they don’t solve the underlying problem. Physiotherapy for neck pain addresses both the cause and symptoms, combining hands-on care, education, and strengthening exercises for long-term relief.
A Real-Life Success Story
An office worker in her 30s came to ALHACARE with persistent neck pain and headaches caused by hours of desk work in a high pressure environment. After a combination of dry needling, soft tissue therapy, and a simple posture-focused exercise plan, she experienced a major reduction in pain and headaches. She currently comes to the physiotherapy once per month to ensure her neck functions optimally.
If neck pain is affecting your work or daily life, don’t wait. Book your appointment online or call ALHACARE today for expert, tailored care.
Download our neck pain resource for quick tips & tricks: