Neck pain

In short

• Neck pain is generally caused by muscles, ligaments or small joints
• The pain is often persistent and can extend up into the head and down into the arms or hands
• Most neck pain gets better by itself. Staying active and avoiding risk factors helps speed up the recovery process
• Your physiotherapist can treat your symptoms and advise you on the right way to move and participate in sport

What is neck pain?

Neck pain is very common nowadays. Approximately 75% of people in the Netherlands experience neck pain at least once in their life. The pain usually originates in the muscles, ligaments or small joints that move the neck. Neck pain can occur when there is no obvious cause, such as an injury. This is called non-specific neck pain. It is by far the most common type of neck pain and accounts for 95% of neck pain. An acute attack of neck pain can be extremely painful. So it is reassuring to know that it is rarely caused by a serious condition.

This video produced by Royal Dutch Society for Physiotherapy (KNGF) will help you understand more about neck pain and how it can be treated.

Only available in dutch.

Causes of neck pain

As we said, neck pain does not always appear to have a physical cause. However, certain kinds of strain are known to increase the chance of neck pain. These include sitting or standing in the same position for long periods and repeating the same movements for long periods. Both place a lot of strain on the neck. If the body does not have a chance to recover from these kinds of strain, the risk of developing neck symptoms increases.

Symptoms of neck pain

Neck pain is often a persistent pain experienced on one or both sides of the neck or along the tops of the shoulders. The pain can come on suddenly, after an impact such as a collision, or it can come on gradually. It may limit your ability to turn your head and make it difficult for you to look behind you when driving. Pain that originates in your neck can also cause headaches, extend down your arms and cause tingling in your hand or fingers. It can also lead to weakness in your hand and reduce your ability to control your hand movements.

How can a physiotherapist help?

Physiotherapy is very effective in treating neck pain. Treatment generally means that the physiotherapist gives you information and advice, teaches you exercises and performs manual therapy to increase the mobility of your neck. In this way, the physiotherapist will help you gain rapid relief from your symptoms and while at the same time ensuring that your neck pain does not return.

Our physiotherapists are available nearby to provide immediate treatment for your symptoms. We have a practice in your company or in the area, so you can start treatment straight away and do not have to spend time travelling. Our physiotherapists are familiar with your workplace. They know a great deal about the workstations, working postures, workloads and strains that the employees within the company have to deal with. They will assess your condition and determine the right treatment and guidance to best meet your needs.