Neck Pain

Understanding Neck Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Physiotherapy Treatment

Neck pain is a common condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age or lifestyle. It can interfere with your daily routine, disrupt sleep, and reduce overall quality of life.

At The Treatment Table, our expert physiotherapists in Liverpool specialise in diagnosing and treating all forms of neck pain. We provide tailored treatment plans designed to support effective, lasting recovery.

What Causes Neck Pain?

Neck pain may stem from a variety of structures within the cervical spine. It is generally classified into three key categories:

1. Mechanical Neck Pain

Caused by muscle or joint dysfunction, often due to poor posture, repetitive strain, or overuse. This leads to abnormal stresses on the neck.

2. Discogenic Neck Pain

This type originates from the intervertebral discs between spinal vertebrae. It can result from trauma (e.g. whiplash) or age-related disc degeneration.

3. Neurological Neck Pain

Occurs when spinal nerve roots become irritated or compressed. This can happen due to inflammation, trauma, or narrowing of spaces (stenosis), potentially affecting the arms and hands.

Common Triggers for Neck Pain Include:

  • Poor posture (e.g. desk work or mobile phone use)

  • Nerve compression

  • Disc prolapse or herniation

  • Joint sprains or facet joint dysfunction

  • Whiplash or sudden trauma

  • Cervical spondylosis (age-related wear and tear)

When to See a Physiotherapist

Occasional neck discomfort may resolve on its own. However, you should seek physiotherapy if:

  • Pain is persistent or worsening

  • It interferes with sleep or daily activities

  • You notice numbness, tingling, or pins and needles in your shoulders, arms, or hands

Early assessment helps prevent chronic pain and speeds up your recovery.

Physiotherapy Assessment at The Treatment Table

We begin every neck pain treatment with a comprehensive physiotherapy assessment:

🔹 Subjective Assessment

We take time to understand your symptoms, lifestyle, medical history, and how pain affects your everyday activities.

🔹 Objective (Physical) Assessment

Our physiotherapists will:

  • Assess posture, range of motion, and muscle strength

  • Examine cervical, thoracic spine, and shoulders

  • Test reflexes and soft tissue for dysfunction or referred pain

This allows us to determine the root cause of your symptoms and create a tailored treatment plan.

Physiotherapy Treatments for Neck Pain

Your physiotherapy plan will be personalised to your specific diagnosis, needs, and goals. Treatment may include:

  • ✅ Manual Therapy – Joint mobilisation and manipulation to relieve stiffness

  • ✅ Stretching & Strengthening Exercises – Improve flexibility and support neck stability

  • ✅ Postural Correction – Education on ergonomics and alignment

  • ✅ Acupuncture – Relieve pain and tension naturally

  • ✅ Massage Therapy – Alleviate tight muscles and improve circulation

  • ✅ Pain Management Techniques – Strategies to cope with discomfort

  • ✅ Workplace Ergonomic Advice – Prevent future strain or injury

Benefits of Physiotherapy for Neck Pain

  • ✔ Effective pain relief

  • ✔ Restored mobility and range of motion

  • ✔ Reduced muscular tension and spasms

  • ✔ Improved nerve function

  • ✔ Enhanced ability to perform daily activities

  • ✔ Prevention of future episodes

Book Your Neck Pain Assessment Today

If you're dealing with neck pain, don’t wait until it worsens. Let our team at The Treatment Table help you feel better and move freely again.

📧 Email: info@thetreatmenttable.com
📞 Phone: 0151 559 1107