Neck Pain

What Is Neck Pain?

Neck pain is a common issue that can develop suddenly or worsen over time. It can make everyday tasks more difficult, whether it’s caused by stress, strain or something else. Sometimes, the discomfort fades on its own. If it doesn’t, you may need expert care.

What Causes Neck Pain?

There are many reasons you might be feeling neck pain. Some of the most common causes include:

• Age-related changes in the spine, like arthritis or disc problems that could impact nearby nerves
• Inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis
• Muscle strain from overuse, stress or sudden movements
• Nerve compression due to bone spurs, herniated discs or spinal stenosis
• Poor posture, especially from regularly sitting or using electronic devices (also known as tech neck)
• Stress and tension
• Whiplash or trauma from car accidents, falls or sports injuries

Neck Pain Symptoms

Neck pain can take many forms, depending on what’s causing it. Symptoms may include:

• Difficulty turning your head
• Dull aching in the neck or shoulders
• Headaches
• Limited range of motion, meaning your neck doesn’t move as freely
• Muscle tightness or spasms
• Pain that worsens with movements like turning your head, looking up or down, or lifting your arms
• Radiating pain that spreads into your shoulders or arms
• Soreness, especially after waking up

Easy Access, Close to Home

With more than 50 physical therapy locations across Florida, Brooks makes it easy to find neck pain relief close to home. Many clinics offer extended weekday hours, so you can schedule visits before or after work. And you might not need a referral to start treatment, depending on your insurance. Direct access to our physical therapists can help you feel better sooner. Become a patient.

How Is Neck Pain Treated?

Physical therapy is a common and effective treatment for chronic neck pain. At Brooks, physical therapists, including certified orthopedic clinical specialists (OCS) guide your care. These specialists are physical therapists with advanced training in orthopedic conditions. They begin with a thorough evaluation to identify the source of your symptoms and use this information to create a personalized treatment plan.

Physical therapy for neck pain may include:

• Dry needling: This technique uses thin needles to release tight muscle areas (trigger points), which helps reduce pain and improve movement.
• Joint mobilization: Therapists apply pressure and guide you through precise movements to improve joint motion.
• Strengthening and postural retraining: We guide you through targeted exercises to improve alignment, stability and muscle endurance.
• Stretching: This treatment lengthens tight muscles, improving flexibility and supporting your body’s ability to move well.
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS): Placing gentle electrical pulses on the skin helps block pain signals and ease discomfort.

Why Choose Brooks Rehabilitation for Neck Pain Treatment?

We tailor every part of your care to help you move better, feel better and prevent future neck pain.

Highlights of our program include:

• Focused care: Orthopedic physical therapists work with you to learn more about your symptoms, lifestyle and treatment goals. This close attention enables us to adjust neck pain treatments according to how your body responds and allows you to make the most of each session.
• Neurologic physical therapy: After a stroke or traumatic brain injury (TBI), neck pain can occur due to changes in posture, muscle tone or movement. At Brooks, neurologic and orthopedic physical therapists work together to address these complex issues. This level of coordination gives you the best chance of achieving your goals.
• Ongoing support: Even with successful treatment, neck pain sometimes comes back. Everyday stress, poor posture, aging and sleep position can all contribute to flare-ups. If this happens to you, we stand ready to help. Our therapists are honored when patients choose to come back to us. We’ll pinpoint the cause and help you get relief.

FAQs About Orthopedic Physical Therapy for Neck Pain

How can physical therapy help with tech neck?

Treatment at Brooks helps loosen tight muscles, reset your posture and build everyday habits that give your neck a break. Tech neck often goes hand-in-hand with rounded shoulders, so we look at how your whole upper body moves not just your neck. Our comprehensive approach helps you feel better sooner and stay that way.

Is dry needling effective for chronic neck pain?

Dry needling can be especially helpful when muscle tension contributes to neck pain. This type of pain often causes stiffness, aching and tender spots. Brooks was among the first programs in the region to offer dry needling. Patients who have lived with pain for years have experienced their first symptom-free days after completing treatment.

How can a stroke or traumatic brain injury lead to neck pain?

After a stroke or TBI, neck pain can result from changes in posture or muscle control. Some muscles may weaken, forcing others to work harder and become strained. This imbalance can lead to discomfort, stiffness and pain in the neck.