Relieving Neck and Shoulder Pain: How Physiotherapy Can Help

Origin of neck and shoulder complaints
A herniated disc in the neck can cause radiating pain from the neck to the shoulder. As people age, osteoarthritis becomes a possible cause of neck and shoulder pain. This condition leads to the wear and tear of the joints between the vertebrae. Decalcification of bones, or osteoporosis, can also cause these complaints. Cervical vertebrae may even sag a little due to this condition, resulting in cervical spine fractures.

In some cases, however, no clear medical cause can be identified for neck and shoulder pain, which is referred to as non-specific complaints.Pain in the neck and shoulder can have various causes such as incorrect posture, joint inflammation, and overuse from work or exercise. Physiotherapy can help alleviate these symptoms by providing exercises to strengthen muscles, improve posture, and increase joint mobility. Specific causes such as carpal tunnel syndrome or osteoarthritis may require targeted treatment. Non-specific complaints may not have a clear medical cause but can still benefit from physiotherapy to improve overall neck and shoulder function and alleviate pain.

How long do neck and shoulder complaints last?
Neck and shoulder pain can persist for a considerable period of time, sometimes lasting for weeks. If the pain persists, it is advisable to contact a GP within a week for an examination. Recurrent neck and shoulder pain may require the services of a physiotherapist.

Tips to prevent neck and shoulder pain
To prevent neck and shoulder pain, regular movement is essential. If the pain worsens after exercise or persists for more than a few days, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Heat therapy is another effective remedy for reducing neck and shoulder pain. In addition, it is advisable to check the firmness of the pillow on which you sleep to ensure it is still providing adequate support.

Neck examination
When seeking medical attention, it is important to provide the doctor with detailed information about the onset and frequency of your symptoms, as well as any medication use or family history of disease. Based on this information, a doctor may be able to determine the cause of your neck and shoulder pain. However, a physical examination and additional tests such as MRI or CT scans may be necessary to rule out other conditions and provide a definitive diagnosis.