Understanding neck pain
Neck pain is extremely common, whether from sleeping awkwardly, long hours at a desk, a sports knock, or a whiplash-type injury. The cervical spine is a delicate, highly mobile structure, which makes it responsive to treatment but also sensitive to strain and poor posture over time.
Common causes we see
- Postural neck pain - stiffness and pain linked to desk work, screen use, or poor ergonomic setup
- Whiplash - neck injury from sudden acceleration-deceleration, commonly from a vehicle accident
- Muscle strain - overuse or sudden strain to the muscles supporting the neck and upper back
- Cervical joint stiffness - restricted movement in the small joints of the neck, often causing one-sided pain
- Headaches of neck origin - tension-type headaches that originate from neck dysfunction
How we treat neck pain at Mi Physio
Every treatment plan starts with a thorough assessment to understand what's actually driving your neck pain. From there, your physiotherapist builds a plan that may include:
- Hands-on manual therapy to restore movement and ease stiffness
- A tailored exercise and postural correction programme
- Ergonomic and workstation advice for desk-based roles
- Acupuncture or dry needling as part of a broader management plan, where appropriate
- Guidance on safe return to sport or usual activities
When to see a physio for neck pain
It's worth booking an assessment if you're experiencing:
- Neck pain that hasn't improved after a few days
- Stiffness that limits turning your head or looking up/down
- Pain, numbness, or tingling radiating into the shoulder or arm
- Neck pain following a knock, fall, or vehicle accident
Common questions
Do I need a referral to see a physio for neck pain?
No referral is necessary. Physiotherapists are first-contact practitioners, so you can book directly for assessment and treatment.
Is neck pain physiotherapy covered by ACC?
If your neck pain is the result of an injury, it's likely covered by ACC. If it isn't injury-related, we're still happy to treat you privately, and can provide receipts for private insurance claims.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on the cause and severity of your neck pain. Your physiotherapist will discuss an expected treatment timeline after your initial assessment.
