When Should You See a Chiropractor for Neck Pain?
Neck pain is common and can range from mild stiffness to discomfort that interferes with work, sleep, driving or exercise. While some episodes improve with gentle movement and time, ongoing or recurring neck pain may benefit from a professional assessment.
Common causes of neck pain
Neck discomfort may be associated with:
Prolonged computer or phone use
Changes in posture or working position
Muscle tension or joint stiffness
Sleeping in an uncomfortable position
Sports, exercise or repetitive movements
An accident or sudden injury
Age-related changes
Sometimes there is no single identifiable cause.
When should you book an assessment?
Consider seeing a chiropractor if your neck pain:
Has not started improving after several days
Keeps returning
Restricts your ability to turn or move your head
Is affecting your sleep, work or usual activities
Is accompanied by tension around your shoulders or upper back
Began following an accident or sports-related injury
You do not need to wait until the pain becomes severe. An early assessment can help identify factors that may be contributing to your symptoms and determine whether chiropractic care is appropriate for you.
How can a chiropractor help?
A chiropractor will first ask about your symptoms, medical history and daily activities. They may then assess your posture, movement, joints, muscles and neurological function.
Depending on the findings, care may include gentle joint techniques, soft-tissue work, mobility exercises, postural advice or recommendations for managing your symptoms at home. Your care should always be adapted to your health, comfort and individual needs.
New Zealand evidence reviewed by ACC suggests chiropractic care may help reduce pain and improve function in the short term for some people with non-specific neck pain. Results vary, and no treatment can guarantee a particular outcome.
When should you seek urgent medical attention?
Neck pain is not always appropriate for chiropractic care. Seek urgent medical help if it follows a significant head or neck injury, or is accompanied by symptoms such as:
New or worsening weakness or numbness
Difficulty walking, speaking or staying balanced
Loss of bladder or bowel control
A sudden, unusually severe headache
Chest pain, breathing difficulty, dizziness or sweating
Fever with severe neck stiffness
Confusion, fainting or repeated vomiting
Call 111 if symptoms are sudden or severe.
Neck-pain assessments in Mount Roskill
At Beyond the Spine Chiropractic, we assess each person individually before recommending care. If chiropractic care is not suitable, we will advise you to seek the appropriate medical assessment.
Our clinic is located in Mount Roskill, Auckland, and appointments are available for new and existing patients.
Experiencing neck pain or stiffness? Book an appointment with Beyond the Spine Chiropractic to find out whether chiropractic care may be suitable for you.
This article provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice.