Four reasons you’d need physical therapy for neck pain

physical therapy neck exercises
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Neck pain is a common problem that affects millions of Americans every year. It ranges in severity from minor stiff necks from sleeping in a funny position to chronic conditions like arthritis or spinal stenosis. Regardless of severity, many conditions that cause neck pain can be treated with physical therapy.

Physical therapists use a variety of techniques to treat neck pain. Stretches and exercises are at the core of many physical therapy treatments, but you can also expect:

  • Manual therapy
  • Electrical stimulation
  • Massage
  • Posture education

So, you may be wondering if it’s time to schedule an appointment with a physical therapist to treat your neck pain. Below are a few reasons you should schedule an appointment for treatment:

1. Your neck is stiff

When you cannot fully turn your head or look up and down, you may need to see a physical therapist. There could be tension in the muscles that is painful and limits your range of motion. You may also have a spinal condition like a herniated disc that is limiting your range of motion.

An occasional stiff neck from poor posture or sitting too long is a normal part of life. However, if your stiff neck persists for days or weeks, you may have a condition that requires professional treatment.

2. It hurts to move your neck

A stiff neck and a sore neck are not the same thing. You can experience pain in your neck but still have a full range of motion. If your neck has been hurting for days and you can still move it, you may still need treatment.

3. You frequently get headaches

Some conditions in your neck put pressure on the nerves in your spine. This could cause pain in the part of your neck that stems into your head, leading to headaches. If you frequently get headaches or migraines, you may need physical therapy to reduce pressure off the nerves in your neck. 

4. Your neck pain spreads into your shoulders and arms

Conditions in your neck can also put pressure on the nerves that stem from the spine into the arms. If you have a sharp, burning pain that extends from your neck into your shoulders or arms, you may need physical therapy for treatment.

Visit Excel Sports & Physical Therapy for neck pain treatment

Do you have sudden neck pain or a chronic condition that’s been affecting your neck? Our team at Excel Sports & Physical Therapy can help. Contact our team today for more information about neck pain treatment or to schedule an initial appointment.