| What is it? Mechanical neck pain is a common condition characterised by pain originating from the cervical spine & neck structures (think: joints, intervertebral discs, muscles, fascia). It often results from poor/weak posture, repetitive strain, or sudden movements like whiplash injuries. Unlike pain from nerve compression, mechanical neck pain is typically localised, with symptoms such as stiffness, discomfort, and reduced range of motion. It can be triggered by things like prolonged desk work, sleeping in awkward positions, or stress-related muscle tension. Mechanical neck pain can occur in isolation or be associated with other conditions like cervical spondylosis (=neck wear and tear), and it may present with varying degrees of severity and disability. Which treatments are helpful? Conservative treatments, including manual physical therapy (chiropractors are experts at this!) and exercise, have been shown to provide significant improvements in pain and disability compared to ‘waiting it out’ and hoping it will improve on it’s own. Chiropractors use a combination of techniques designed to restore movement, reduce muscle tightness, and alleviate pain.These include:Spinal manipulation to help improve neck joint mobility.Soft tissue therapy, including trigger point therapy and dry needling, to alleviate muscle tension and promote healing.Additionally, we prescribe specific exercises to strengthen underlying muscle weakness, helping build long-term resilience – making the neck stronger and less prone to injury in the future! Why choose chiropractic care? Chiropractic care makes sense because it addresses the root cause of mechanical neck pain rather than just masking symptoms with medication. By improving joint movement and relaxing tight muscles, chiropractic techniques enhance blood flow and reduce inflammation, which speeds up recovery. This hands-on, natural approach provides lasting relief and helps people move more comfortably in their daily lives. |
| By Dr Aimee Nicholas |
