Expert Neck Pain Treatment & Management in Melbourne
▫️Written by John Keller
✅ Reviewed by Dr. Jenny Hynes on March 19, 2025
Neck pain is common and can arise from injuries, poor posture, or age-related changes in the cervical spine. The neck, or cervical spine, comprises seven vertebrae, surrounding muscles, and nerves that support the head and enable movement. Damage to these components can cause pain and discomfort.
With up to 70% of people experiencing neck pain at some point, it is a major cause of disability that impacts daily life and mobility. This article explores the causes and types of neck pain, how neck pain affects daily activities, and available treatment and prevention strategies.
Keilor Road Physio is a team of physiotherapists who are experts in their field. Book an appointment to see a neck physio today.
Specialist neck pain treatment Melbourne.
Common types of neck pain and their causes
Acute neck pain
Definition and characteristics:
Acute neck pain is a sudden onset of discomfort in the neck, typically lasting for a short period. It often presents as sharp or stabbing pain that can limit neck movement.Common causes:
This type of pain is often caused by whiplash from a car accident, sudden movements, or muscle strains.Typical duration and prognosis:
Acute neck pain usually resolves within a few days to weeks with proper care, including rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Most individuals recover fully, although some may experience recurring episodes.
Neck-related (Cervicogenic) headache
Explanation of the condition:
Cervicogenic headaches originate from issues in the cervical spine or surrounding muscles. Unlike migraines or tension headaches, these headaches are caused by neck problems.How it differs from other types of headaches:
Cervicogenic headaches are typically one-sided and often accompanied by neck stiffness or pain. They can be triggered by neck movement or sustained awkward positions.Common triggers and symptoms:
Triggers include poor posture, stress, and neck injuries. Symptoms often involve pain radiating from the neck to the back of the head, temples, or forehead.
Pinched nerve (Cervical radiculopathy)
Definition and mechanism:
Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve in the neck is compressed or irritated, leading to symptoms that radiate along the nerve’s pathway.Symptoms:
Individuals may experience sharp pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms and hands. These symptoms often worsen with neck movements.Common causes:
Pinched nerves are commonly caused by a herniated disc or bone spurs that press on the nerve roots in the cervical spine.
Recurrent or chronic neck pain
Definition:
Chronic neck pain is defined as pain that persists for more than three months. It can be constant or come and go over time.Potential underlying conditions:
Conditions like degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis, or previous neck injuries can contribute to chronic neck pain.Impact on daily life and mental health:
Chronic neck pain can significantly affect daily activities, leading to decreased mobility, sleep disturbances, and mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.
What causes neck pain?
Poor posture and ergonomics:
•Tech neck: Prolonged use of smartphones, tablets, or computers can lead to a forward head posture, causing strain on the neck muscles.
•Office ergonomics: Improper workstation setup, such as a poorly positioned monitor or chair, can contribute to neck pain due to sustained awkward positions.
Muscle strain and overuse:
•Repetitive movements or holding the neck in one position for too long, such as during driving or reading, can lead to muscle strain and discomfort.
Injury or trauma to the neck:
•Whiplash: A sudden jolt or impact, commonly from car accidents, can cause the neck to snap forward and backward, leading to soft tissue injuries.
•Sports injuries: High-impact sports or activities that involve sudden neck movements can result in acute neck pain from strains or sprains.
Age related conditions:
•Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear of the cervical spine can lead to the breakdown of cartilage, causing pain and stiffness.
•Cervical spondylosis: Age-related changes in the cervical spine, such as disc degeneration or bone spur formation, can contribute to chronic neck pain.
Nerve compression causing neck pain:
•Cervical radiculopathy: A herniated disc or bone spurs can compress nerves in the neck, leading to radiating pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms.
•Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck can put pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, causing pain and neurological symptoms.
Other factors:
•Stress: Emotional stress can cause muscle tension in the neck, leading to pain and discomfort.
•Sleep position: Sleeping in an awkward position or using an unsupportive pillow can strain the neck muscles.
•Certain occupations: Jobs that require repetitive neck movements, heavy lifting, or prolonged sitting can increase the risk of developing neck pain.
Signs and symptoms of neck pain: When to seek help
Pain characteristics:
Location: Pain may be localised to one side, both sides, or radiate to the shoulders, upper back, or arms.
Quality: Pain can be sharp, dull, burning, or throbbing, and may vary with activity or posture.
Intensity and duration: Ranges from mild to severe, and may be constant or intermittent, lasting from days to months.
Range of motion limitations:
Difficulty turning head or looking up/down: Challenges in moving the head or looking up and down can affect daily activities.
Stiffness and reduced flexibility: Often accompanied by stiffness, reducing neck movement and causing tightness.
Associated symptoms:
Headaches: May include tension headaches or cervicogenic headaches originating from neck issues.
Numbness or tingling: Compression of nerves can cause numbness or a "pins and needles" sensation in the arms or hands.
Weakness: Possible weakness in the arms or hands, affecting grip and motor tasks.
Dizziness or balance issues: Some experience dizziness or imbalance, particularly with head movement.
Impact on daily activities and quality of life
Neck pain can significantly disrupt daily activities and reduce overall quality of life. Individuals may struggle with tasks that require neck movement, such as driving, working at a computer, or engaging in physical activities. Persistent pain can lead to frustration, sleep disturbances, and, in some cases, anxiety or depression, further affecting one's well-being.
Neck pain management strategies for everyday life
Incorporating simple changes into your daily routine can help prevent and manage neck pain.
Correcting your posture at work and at home:
Ergonomic desk and computer setup: Position your monitor at eye level and ensure your chair supports your lower back, with feet flat on the floor and knees level with hips. Read our top tips for the best working from home ergonomic setup here.
Pillows and mattresses: Use supportive pillows and a firm mattress to maintain spinal alignment and reduce neck strain. Watch our video on the best pillow for decreasing neck pain here.
Best sleeping posture for neck pain relief:
Sleep position: Sleep on your side with a supportive pillow; avoid stomach sleeping to prevent neck strain.
Best exercises and stretches for neck pain relief:
Neck-specific exercises: Perform chin tucks, neck stretches, and shoulder shrugs to strengthen and maintain neck flexibility. Find the 5 best exercises for tension headaches here.
Overall fitness: Engage in regular physical activity to improve posture and support spine health.
Stress management techniques to reduce neck tension:
Relaxation techniques: Use deep breathing, yoga, or progressive muscle relaxation to reduce neck tension.
Mindfulness and meditation: Practice mindfulness and meditation to manage stress, a common trigger for neck pain.
Lifestyle changes to help decrease neck pain:
Healthy weight: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce strain on the neck.
Quit smoking: Stop smoking to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of cervical spine issues.
Stay hydrated: Drink enough water to keep spinal discs healthy and flexible.
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How to diagnose neck pain and it's causes
Comprehensive neck pain assessment:
Medical history: The diagnosis begins with a review of the patient's medical history, including any past neck injuries, lifestyle factors, and symptoms.
Physical examination:
Range of motion tests: The doctor will assess the neck’s flexibility and movement to identify any limitations or discomfort during motion.
Neurological examination: This includes testing reflexes, muscle strength, and sensory function to detect nerve involvement.
Palpation and observation: The neck is physically examined to check for tenderness, muscle spasms, or alignment issues.
Best imaging to diagnose neck pain:
X-rays: Used to evaluate bone alignment and detect signs of arthritis or fractures.
MRI: Provides detailed images of soft tissues, including muscles, ligaments, and nerves, helping to identify disc issues or nerve compression.
CT scan: Offers a more detailed view of the bones in the cervical spine, useful for detecting fractures or bone disorders.
Electromyography (EMG): Assesses nerve function by measuring electrical activity in muscles, helpful for diagnosing nerve-related conditions.
Additional tests:
Blood tests: May be conducted to rule out infections or inflammatory conditions.
Nerve conduction studies: Used to evaluate the speed and strength of electrical signals in nerves, particularly if nerve damage is suspected.
The best treatment options for neck pain in Melbourne
Explore the most effective treatments for neck pain and how physiotherapy can help.
Conservative management for neck pain relief:
Rest and activity modification: Adjusting daily activities and allowing time for the neck to heal can help reduce pain and prevent further injury.
Ice/heat therapy: Applying ice can reduce inflammation, while heat can relax muscles and improve blood flow.
Neck collars: Neck collars provide support and limit movement, though long-term use can weaken neck muscles.
The best medication to use for neck pain relief:
Over-the-counter options: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Be sure to consult the pharmacist before making a final decision.
Prescription medications: For more severe pain, doctors may prescribe muscle relaxants or medications specifically for nerve pain. Make sure you consult your GP before making any decisions regarding medication use.
Physiotherapy for neck pain relief:
Specific techniques: Physical therapists may use manual therapy, such as massage and joint mobilisation, or traction to relieve pressure on the spine.
Therapeutic exercises: Strengthening and stretching exercises tailored to the individual can improve neck function and reduce pain.
Alternative therapies for neck pain relief:
Acupuncture: This traditional therapy involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain and improve neck mobility.
Massage therapy: Massage can reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and alleviate pain.
Interventional procedures for decreasing neck pain:
Epidural steroid injections: These injections deliver steroids directly into the epidural space around the spinal cord to reduce inflammation and pain.
Facet joint injections: Injections into the facet joints of the spine can relieve pain associated with arthritis or other joint issues.
Surgical intervention for neck pain:
Indications for surgery: Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments fail, and there is significant nerve compression, instability, or persistent pain.
Common procedures:
Discectomy: Removal of a herniated disc to relieve nerve pressure.
Spinal fusion: Fusing two or more vertebrae together to stabilise the spine and reduce pain.
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The role of physiotherapy in long-term neck pain management
Physiotherapy for neck pain focuses on reducing pain, improving function, and preventing future issues. It combines manual therapy, exercise, and education to address the root causes of neck pain and restore optimal neck function.
Specialist Neck Pain Assessment at Keilor Road Physiotherapy
At Keilor Road Physiotherapy, we believe that a detailed assessment is the first step in creating an effective treatment plan for neck pain. Our expert physiotherapists conduct a thorough evaluation to identify the exact cause and severity of your neck pain.
Expert Physiotherapists Specialising in Neck Pain
We are proud to have a team of expert physiotherapists who specialise in treating neck pain and its related conditions. Our physiotherapists are highly trained, with extensive experience in:
Advanced assessment techniques: Our physiotherapists use a combination of physical tests, posture assessments, and advanced tools like the AxIT system to identify the root causes of your neck pain. This thorough approach allows us to tailor treatments to your unique condition.
Evidence-based treatments: We stay up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in physiotherapy to ensure we use the most effective, evidence-based techniques to relieve neck pain and prevent future problems.
Hands-on therapy expertise: Our physiotherapists are skilled in hands-on techniques such as joint mobilisation, soft tissue massage, and manual therapy, providing immediate relief from muscle tension and stiffness.
Whether you’re dealing with acute or chronic neck pain, our physiotherapists have the knowledge and skills to guide you through an effective recovery.
Cutting-Edge Technology for Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment
We utilise the latest technology to provide precise assessments and optimal treatment. This includes the AxIT system, a cutting-edge diagnostic tool used for:
Strength assessment: The AxIT system helps our physiotherapists measure the strength and function of muscles around your neck and upper back, allowing us to identify weaknesses that may be contributing to your pain.
Movement analysis: The system provides precise data on how your neck moves, helping us identify dysfunctions in your range of motion and posture. This enables us to design a targeted rehabilitation program.
Real-time feedback: The AxIT system offers real-time feedback during treatment sessions, ensuring you're progressing and that the treatment plan is working effectively.
This advanced technology allows us to provide data-driven, personalised treatment plans, ensuring faster recovery and more accurate results.
Personalised and Tailored Treatment Plans
We understand that neck pain affects each person differently. That’s why we create personalised treatment plans tailored specifically to your needs. Here’s how we ensure your treatment is customised:
Comprehensive initial assessment: During your first appointment, we take the time to understand your specific symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history. This helps us determine the best course of action for your neck pain.
Treatment based on your condition: Whether your neck pain is due to poor posture, a recent injury, or a degenerative condition, we design a program that targets the underlying causes and supports your recovery.
Progress monitoring: Throughout your treatment, we continually reassess your condition to make adjustments to your program as needed, ensuring that you’re progressing at the right pace.
This personalised approach ensures you receive the most effective and focused care for your neck pain.
Hands on and active treatment options
We offer a wide range of treatment options, giving us the flexibility to provide the best care for your specific needs. These options include:
Manual therapy: Techniques such as soft tissue massage and joint mobilisation to reduce muscle tension, increase flexibility, and restore range of motion in your neck.
Exercise therapy: Custom exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting your neck, improve posture, and prevent future pain. We guide you through progressive exercises that target the neck, shoulders, and upper back to ensure long-term relief.
Postural correction: We provide guidance on improving posture both in everyday activities and work environments, reducing strain on the neck muscles and preventing further discomfort.
By offering a combination of treatments, we ensure a holistic approach to your recovery, addressing both immediate pain and long-term prevention.
A Focus on Prevention and Education
We believe that educating our patients and empowering them with the right tools is key to long-term success. Our physiotherapists will:
Provide preventative strategies: Teach you how to manage your neck pain and prevent future flare-ups through posture correction, strengthening exercises, and lifestyle modifications.
Support your ongoing recovery: We offer advice on maintaining neck health, including ergonomic recommendations for your home and workplace, stretching routines, and tips for staying active without exacerbating your neck pain.
By focusing on prevention, we aim to help you manage neck pain effectively and prevent it from interfering with your daily life
When should you seek professional help for your neck pain?
Recognising Severe or Unexplained Neck Pain
While most cases of neck pain can be managed with self-care and home treatments, there are times when seeking professional help is crucial. At Keilor Road Physiotherapy, we recommend seeing a physiotherapist if your neck pain is:
Severe and doesn’t improve: If your neck pain is intense and doesn’t get better with over-the-counter pain relievers, rest, or home remedies, it’s important to consult a physiotherapist for a more thorough evaluation. Persistent severe pain could be a sign of a more serious underlying issue, such as a herniated disc or nerve compression.
Not related to a recent injury: If your neck pain appears suddenly without any clear cause or injury, it’s worth seeking professional advice. Sometimes, undiagnosed conditions such as arthritis, degenerative disc disease, or muscle imbalances can lead to sudden, unexplained pain.
If your neck pain has been ongoing for a week or longer without improvement, a professional assessment is recommended to understand the cause and develop a treatment plan.
Neck Pain Accompanied by Numbness or Tingling
If your neck pain is accompanied by numbness, tingling, or a "pins and needles" sensation in your arms, hands, or fingers, it’s important to consult a physiotherapist at Keilor Road Physiotherapy as soon as possible. These symptoms could indicate:
Nerve compression: Conditions like cervical radiculopathy (a pinched nerve in the neck) can cause these sensations and may require targeted physiotherapy to relieve pressure on the nerve and improve mobility.
Cervical disc herniation: A herniated disc in the cervical spine can press on nerves, leading to radiating pain and numbness. This condition often requires specific physical therapy treatments, including manual therapy, targeted strengthening exercises, and ergonomic adjustments.
Our physiotherapists are skilled in diagnosing these issues and can help restore normal function through specialised therapies and exercise plans.
Limited Range of Motion
If you experience limited range of motion or stiffness in your neck, it may indicate a more serious problem. Symptoms like:
Difficulty turning your head: If you struggle to turn your head to one side or look over your shoulder without pain or restriction, this could indicate muscle tightness, joint dysfunction, or nerve irritation.
Pain with everyday activities: When simple activities such as driving, typing, or even looking up or down cause significant discomfort, it’s time to consult with a physiotherapist.
At Keilor Road Physiotherapy, we focus on improving the mobility of the cervical spine through hands-on therapy, stretches, and corrective exercises, helping you regain full range of motion and eliminate pain.
Neck Pain Accompanied by Headaches or Dizziness
If your neck pain is also causing headaches or dizziness, professional help is essential. Cervicogenic headaches are a common result of neck pain and can be triggered by muscle tension, poor posture, or spinal misalignment. Symptoms to watch out for include:
Pain that starts in the neck and spreads to the head: This often occurs on one side and may feel like a tension headache or migraine.
Dizziness or vertigo: In some cases, neck pain can interfere with the vestibular system (balance system), causing dizziness or a feeling of being off-balance.
At Keilor Road Physiotherapy, our physiotherapists are trained to differentiate between various headache types and can create a treatment plan that addresses both your neck pain and its related symptoms, helping to alleviate headaches and restore balance.
Neck Pain with Difficulty Swallowing or Breathing
If your neck pain is accompanied by difficulty swallowing or breathing, you should seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying issue such as:
Spinal cord compression
Severe nerve damage
Infection or inflammation
While these conditions are rare, they require urgent care. If you experience these symptoms along with neck pain, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical advice. Afterward, physiotherapy may be used to assist with recovery, improve posture, and address any residual discomfort.
Chronic Neck Pain with Poor Sleep Quality
If you are dealing with chronic neck pain that affects your ability to sleep comfortably or wake up with stiffness, it’s a sign that the pain is significantly impacting your quality of life. Over time, poor sleep patterns can worsen pain and muscle tightness. Consulting with a physiotherapist at Keilor Road Physiotherapy is recommended if:
You have trouble finding a comfortable sleeping position due to neck pain.
You wake up with neck stiffness or soreness, which doesn’t improve after a short time.
Our physiotherapists will help assess your sleep posture, recommend proper pillow support, and provide exercises to alleviate tension and prevent pain from interfering with your rest.
When to Consult Keilor Road Physiotherapy
At Keilor Road Physiotherapy, we specialise in the treatment of neck pain and its related symptoms. If you’re experiencing any of the following, don’t hesitate to book a consultation with one of our expert physiotherapists:
Neck pain that’s severe, persistent, or unexplained
Radiating pain, numbness, or tingling in the arms or hands
Stiffness, limited range of motion, or pain that interferes with daily activities
Neck pain accompanied by headaches, dizziness, or difficulty swallowing
Chronic neck pain that affects sleep quality or overall quality of life
Take the first step toward relief from neck pain with expert physiotherapy in Melbourne. Our physiotherapists will conduct a thorough assessment, provide a diagnosis, and offer personalised treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. Whether it's manual therapy, posture correction, or strength-building exercises, we’ll help you find the right solution for long-term relief. Ready to find lasting relief from neck pain? Contact Keilor Road Physiotherapy today and start your neck pain recovery today.
Frequently asked questions
If you're experiencing neck pain, you likely have many questions about the condition, its causes, and how to manage it. Here, we address some of the most common questions we receive at Keilor Road Physiotherapy.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Neck Pain?
Neck pain can arise from several factors, including poor posture, muscle strain from overuse or sudden movements, degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis, and nerve compression due to herniated discs or bone spurs. Stress and emotional tension can also contribute to neck pain, as tight muscles in the neck can lead to discomfort and stiffness. At Keilor Road Physiotherapy, we thoroughly assess the cause of your pain to create a targeted treatment plan.
When Should I Seek Physiotherapy for My Neck Pain?
You should seek physiotherapy if your neck pain is persistent, severe, or interfering with your daily life. This includes pain that lasts for more than a few days, worsens over time, or is accompanied by symptoms like radiating pain into the arms or hands, difficulty moving your neck, or trouble sleeping. Physiotherapy can help address the underlying causes of your pain and provide relief through targeted treatments and exercises.
How Can Physiotherapy Help with Neck Pain?
Physiotherapy is a highly effective treatment for neck pain. It helps relieve pain and restore mobility through manual therapy techniques like joint mobilisation and soft tissue massage. Our physiotherapists also provide tailored exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting your neck, improve posture, and reduce future pain. Additionally, we offer ergonomic advice to help prevent neck strain in daily activities and improve your overall posture.
Is Neck Pain a Sign of a Serious Medical Condition?
While most neck pain is not caused by serious medical conditions, it can sometimes indicate issues like spinal cord compression, cervical disc herniation, or infection. Severe or sudden neck pain, along with symptoms like numbness, tingling, or difficulty breathing, may require immediate medical attention. At Keilor Road Physiotherapy, we assess your symptoms and refer you to a specialist if necessary to ensure the appropriate care.
Can I Prevent Neck Pain from Happening Again?
Yes, preventing neck pain is possible with lifestyle changes such as maintaining good posture, performing strengthening exercises, and stretching regularly. Adjusting your workstation ergonomically, sleeping with proper neck support, and managing stress can also reduce the risk of recurring neck pain. Our physiotherapists at Keilor Road Physiotherapy will guide you through strategies to maintain neck health and avoid future flare-ups.
How Long Will It Take to Recover from Neck Pain?
Recovery time for neck pain varies depending on its cause and severity. Acute pain from muscle strain may improve within a few days to weeks with physiotherapy and home care, while chronic pain linked to conditions like arthritis might take longer, potentially several weeks to months. Our physiotherapists at Keilor Road Physiotherapy monitor your progress closely to ensure you’re recovering at the right pace.
What Should I Do if My Neck Pain Comes Back?
If your neck pain returns, it’s important to seek reassessment with a physiotherapist at Keilor Road Physiotherapy. We will re-evaluate your condition and adjust your treatment plan to address any new or underlying issues. Our team will also provide ongoing education on posture, exercises, and lifestyle changes to help prevent future flare-ups.
How Can I Get Started with Neck Pain Treatment at Keilor Road Physiotherapy?
Getting started is easy! Simply contact Keilor Road Physiotherapy to schedule an initial consultation. Our expert physiotherapists will conduct a thorough assessment to identify the cause of your neck pain and develop a personalised treatment plan that targets your specific needs. Take the first step towards lasting relief and better neck health today.
References:
Hoy, D., March, L., Woolf, A., Blyth, F., Brooks, P., Smith, E., Vos, T., Barendregt, J., Blore, J., Murray, C., Burstein, R., & Buchbinder, R. (2014). The global burden of neck pain: estimates from the Global Burden of Disease 2010 study. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, 73(7), 1309–1315. https://doi.org/10.1136/annrheumdis-2013-204431
Related links:
Acute Neck Pain: Causes, Signs, and Effective Treatment Options
Understanding Neck-Related (Cervicogenic) Headaches: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments
Cervical Radiculopathy: Understanding Pinched Nerves in the Neck
Understanding Chronic and Recurrent Neck Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Management
Article by
John Keller
Clinical Director | Sports & Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist
John graduated as a Physiotherapist from the Auckland University of Technology with the John Morris memorial prize for outstanding clinical practise in 2003. John has since completed Post Graduate Diplomas in both Sports Medicine and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy with distinction, also collecting the Searle Shield for excellence in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.
Reviewed by
Dr. Jenny Hynes FACP
Clinical Director | Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist
Jenny sat extensive examinations to be inducted as a fellow into the Australian College of Physiotherapy in 2009 and gain the title of Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist, one of only a few physiotherapists in the state to have done so.