neck pain

Neck pain is pain felt in the back of the neck – the upper spine area, just below the head. When certain nerves are affected, the pain can extend beyond the back of the neck to areas such as the upper back, shoulder, and arm. It is estimated that it affects approximately 30% of the US population each year. This condition can be caused by sudden trauma such as a fall, a sports injury, a car accident, or by long-term problems in the spine.

Neck pain most frequently affects adults aged 30 to 50 years. Some studies indicate that women are more likely to suffer neck pain than men. Poor posture, obesity, smoking, repetitive lifting, office and computer work, and involvement in athletic activity are all risk factors.

People with neck pain can have difficulty performing activities such as working, driving, playing sports, or simply turning their heads. The majority of episodes do not require surgery and are best treated by physical therapy.

Physical therapists design individualized treatment programs to help people reduce or eliminate pain, regain normal movement, and get back to their regular activities.