Neck & Shoulder Pain
Seeking early intervention can help address the root cause, whether it’s muscle strain, joint issues, or nerve impingement, leading to more effective treatment and relief.
What Is Neck & Shoulder Pain ?
Neck and shoulder pain are common issues that affect a wide range of individuals, often resulting from poor posture, muscle strain, or stress. The neck, also known as the cervical spine, supports the weight of the head and allows for a wide range of motion. When the muscles, ligaments, or discs in the neck or shoulders become strained or inflamed, it can lead to discomfort and stiffness. This pain can range from a mild ache to severe, debilitating discomfort that interferes with daily activities. Poor posture, especially from sitting at a desk for long periods or using mobile devices, is a major contributor to neck and shoulder pain.
Shoulder pain often occurs due to overuse, injury, or conditions like rotator cuff tendinitis, frozen shoulder, or bursitis. The shoulder joint is highly mobile, which makes it more susceptible to injury. When combined with neck pain, this can cause difficulty in performing simple tasks like lifting, turning the head, or reaching overhead. In some cases, the pain in the neck can radiate into the shoulders or arms, making it challenging to pinpoint the exact source of the discomfort.
What Are The Symptoms Of Neck & Shoulder Pain ?
Neck and shoulder pain often manifests with a variety of symptoms that can significantly impact daily activities. Common signs include stiffness and limited range of motion, making it difficult to turn the head or raise the arms. People may also experience a constant, aching pain in the neck or shoulders, which can worsen with movement or after prolonged periods of poor posture. Muscle tension or tightness is a frequent symptom, and individuals may notice that their neck feels “stuck” or rigid. In some cases, sharp pain can occur during certain motions, such as turning the head quickly or lifting objects overhead.
In addition to localised pain, neck and shoulder discomfort can lead to other troubling symptoms. Numbness or tingling may radiate from the neck and into the shoulders, arms, or hands, often suggesting nerve compression or irritation. Headaches are another common symptom, particularly tension headaches that start at the base of the skull. Pain may also worsen during the night, causing sleep disturbances, and some individuals experience weakness in their arms or hands, which can affect grip strength or coordination. If left untreated, these symptoms can persist or worsen, making it essential to seek professional care for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
What Is Our Approach To Fixing / Treating Neck & Shoulder Pain ?
Neck and shoulder pain can be incredibly debilitating, affecting nearly every aspect of daily life. It can make simple tasks, like turning your head or even driving, feel difficult and uncomfortable. One of the primary causes of shoulder pain can be poor posture, particularly a forward head posture. This happens when the shoulders and neck are slouched forward, which can lead to pinching at the front of the shoulder. This pinching can severely impact your mobility and function, making it harder to move freely and comfortably.
When your neck is out of alignment, the muscles and joints are forced into unnatural positions, causing tension and pain. This can often make sleeping particularly challenging, especially when lying on your side. The pressure on the shoulder joint can be increased, leading to more discomfort and disrupted sleep. Many people find it difficult to get comfortable even when resting their head on a pillow. At Chichester Physio, we offer tailored advice on the best pillows to use and recommend sleep positions that can ease the strain on your shoulders and neck.
We understand how frustrating it is when neck and shoulder pain limit your daily activities, which is why we take a comprehensive approach to treatment. Our team at Chichester Physio provides a thorough assessment to identify the root cause of your discomfort. We then offer a range of treatments designed to relieve pain and restore function. These may include electrotherapy, hands-on manual therapy, and acupuncture, all of which can provide targeted relief. For those experiencing poor posture or muscle tension, kinesio taping may be used to support the muscles, alleviate pressure, and promote healing.
After we’ve provided hands-on treatment, we empower you with exercises and postural advice to ensure you can maintain your progress at home. We believe that education and prevention are key in helping you live pain-free and improve your long-term well-being. Whether it’s strengthening exercises to support your neck and shoulders or postural corrections for better alignment, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Our goal is to help you reclaim your mobility, restore your comfort, and get you back to doing what you love. With the right treatment
Download Our Free Report
If you’re struggling with neck and shoulder pain, don’t let it control your life any longer. At Chichester Physio, we’re here to help you understand the root cause of your discomfort and get you on the path to recovery. To take the first step toward a pain-free life, we’re offering a free neck and shoulder pain report. This comprehensive report will provide you with valuable insights into your condition, along with tailored advice on how to relieve your pain and improve your mobility.
