5 Common Causes of Neck Pain and Their Physiotherapy Treatments

14 Oct 2025

Written by Wesley Adora (Physiotherapist, APAM)

Introduction

Neck pain is a very common problem that can affect people of any age. It can develop gradually from poor posture or appear suddenly after an injury. While many people try to manage symptoms with temporary measures like painkillers or rest, understanding the root cause of neck pain is key to lasting relief.

1. Poor Posture and Prolonged           Sitting

Why it happens

Spending long hours at a desk, using mobile devices, or sitting in a slouched position can strain the muscles and joints around the neck. Over time, this leads to stiffness, fatigue, and discomfort.

Common symptoms

• Aching at the base of the skull or upper shoulders

• Pain that worsens with screen use or long sitting hours

• Tightness or reduced mobility when turning the head

• Occasional tension headaches

Physiotherapy treatment

• Posture correction and ergonomic advice to reduce strain on the cervical spine.

• Hands-on techniques like soft tissue release and gentle mobilisations to ease stiffness.

• Strengthening exercises for deep neck flexors and upper back muscles to improve endurance.

• Movement re-education and habit-based strategies to prevent the pain from returning.

3. Cervical Joint Degeneration (Osteoarthritis)

Why it happens

With age or repetitive stress, the joints and discs in the neck can wear down, leading to stiffness, inflammation, and pain. This is commonly referred to as cervical osteoarthritis.

Common symptoms

• Morning stiffness that eases with movement
  

• Deep, aching pain in the neck
  

• Reduced ability to turn the head or look up and down
  

• Clicking or grinding sensations with movement
  

Physiotherapy treatment

• Joint mobilisation techniques to restore movement and reduce stiffness.
  

• Targeted stretching and soft tissue therapy to address muscle tightness.
  

• Stabilisation exercises to support the cervical spine.

• Education on posture, movement habits, and activity modification to maintain long-term comfort.

4. Cervical Disc Bulge or Nerve Compression

Why it happens

A bulging or herniated disc can press on nearby nerves, causing pain to radiate from the neck into the shoulders, arms, or hands. This is a common cause of nerve-related neck pain.

Common symptoms

• Sharp, shooting pain down the arm

• Tingling or numbness in the fingers

• Weakness in specific muscle groups

• Pain aggravated by certain movements or positions

Physiotherapy treatment

• Gentle traction techniques to relieve pressure on the nerve.

• Neural mobilisation exercises to improve nerve movement without irritation.

• Stabilisation and posture retraining to reduce strain on the spine.

• Gradual strengtheningto restore function and prevent flare-ups.

5. Whiplash or Traumatic Neck Injury

Why it happens

Whiplash injuries typically occur from sudden acceleration or deceleration forces, such as in car accidents. The rapid movement overstretches soft tissues in the neck, leading to pain and stiffness.

Common symptoms

• Neck pain and stiffness appearing hours or days after an incident

• Headaches and reduced range of motion

• Tenderness in the neck and shoulder area

• Occasionally, dizziness or fatigue
  

Physiotherapy treatment

• Early gentle movement and mobility exercises to prevent stiffness.
  

• Soft tissue therapy and manual techniques to ease tension.
  

• Progressive strengthening and coordination training to restore normal neck function.
  

• Education and reassuranceto encourage safe, confident movement during recovery.

When to Seek Professional Help

Neck pain that persists for more than a few days, radiates into the arms, or is accompanied by numbness or weakness should be assessed by a qualified physiotherapist. Early intervention can help prevent chronic issues and improve recovery outcomes.

How Physiotherapy Supports Long-Term Recovery

A physiotherapist doesn’t just treat symptoms — they identify the underlying cause, address biomechanical issues, and provide tailored treatment to restore mobility and strength. Treatment may include:

• Manual therapy to ease pain and improve joint mobility

• Posture correction and ergonomic education
  

• Exercise programs to build stability and resilience
  

• Preventive strategies to reduce recurrence