A stiff neck can be mild to severe and can be a symptom of a spinal injury or condition. At Vitalis Physiotherapy, we specialise in treatment of stiff neck’s to:
Within the cervical spine (neck) there are a range of structures, including bones (vertebrae), joints, discs, ligaments, nerves and muscle. These act to support and stabilise the spine. A stiff neck is determined by soreness and a reduced ability to move your neck. Diagnosis can be common for most of us due to poor posture in front of a computer, and it can be a symptom of an underlying spinal condition.
The cause of a stiff neck greatly varies in reason and severity. Any movement or activity which may overstretch, overextend or strain the neck can trigger stiffness;
Common causes of a stiff neck include:
Though the onset/diagnosis of a stiff neck can be immediately determined after an obvious cause, it may still be difficult to pinpoint in some cases.
If you have a stiff neck, it is important that a GP or physiotherapist rule out a differential diagnoses as the underlying cause for the stiffness. You may be referred for CT, X-ray or MRI scans to determine the location and extent of the injury.
Physical therapy is highly beneficial in reducing pain and other symptoms of a stiff neck. At Vitalis Physiotherapy, we tailor a unique treatment plan to aid in your recovery through:
If the pain and reduced movement is severe, driving and strenuous activity should be avoided. Your physiotherapist may also advise heat or ice application, rest and if necessary, pain medication. Additionally, they might recommend for you to use neck support or a suitable pillow.
Are you in pain caused by a stiff neck? Contact Vitalis Physiotherapy now to book in your treatment. Call our friendly team on 0410 559 856. We’d love to help.
