Surrey osteopathy and wellness

Neck pain often arises from injuries or imbalances in the joints and muscles. Sudden injuries can occur from incidents like falls or sports accidents, while imbalances develop gradually due to poor habits. These imbalances accumulate over time, never appearing abruptly. One common factor is poor posture, such as slouching or leaning over a desk, which strains the neck muscles and ligaments, causing discomfort and pain. Injuries from falls or sports accidents can also lead to significant neck pain by damaging the spine, muscles, or ligaments, resulting in acute pain and potential long-term complications if not properly treated.

Repetitive joint strain is another contributor, often caused by actions like constantly turning your head towards different computer monitors at work or looking down at your phone for extended periods. Disc herniations, where the discs cushioning the vertebrae bulge or rupture, can compress nerves and cause severe pain. This specific condition, known as cervical radiculopathy, can result in pain and numbness radiating into the arms and hands.

Additionally, excessive stiffness in the neck’s muscles or joints can limit movement and irritate nerves, leading to pain. This stiffness often results from a lack of flexibility, poor posture, stress or prolonged inactivity. Recognising these causes is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies to maintain a healthy neck.