Cervical pain: find out how physiotherapy can help

Cervicalgia manifests itself as pain localised in the neck, which can sometimes radiate to the shoulders, back, arm or head. It is one of the most common musculoskeletal discomforts in the population, appearing either suddenly or gradually, until it interferes with the simplest everyday tasks.

Its causes are diverse and often silent:

• Prolonged incorrect posture;
• Accumulated tension from stress;
• Repeated movements;
• Hours at a time in front of the computer or on the mobile phone;
• Degenerative changes in the cervical spine;
• Minor injuries that go unnoticed;
• Sedentary lifestyle, which reduces the strength and endurance of the cervical and scapular muscles;
• Poor ergonomic conditions in the workplace.

When these factors come together, the neck region becomes more vulnerable, and pain emerges as a warning from the body asking for care and balance.

The role of physiotherapy

Physiotherapy plays a decisive role in the recovery of these painful conditions, accompanying the patient from the moments of greatest pain intensity to the various stages of rehabilitation. Its intervention goes far beyond immediate relief; it is an ongoing process aimed at reducing pain and inflammation, restoring mobility to the cervical spine and rebuilding the strength and stability of the muscles that support the neck.

It is a meticulous process of perfecting movement, aimed at correcting postural patterns, reorganising gestures and teaching the body to rediscover its natural alignment. To do this, techniques such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, postural re-education and ergonomic guidelines are used. The physiotherapist thus assumes an essential educational role, helping the patient to understand the origin of the discomfort and to adopt habits that prevent recurrences, promoting a more conscious, balanced and healthy relationship with their own body.

With appropriate monitoring and an individualised plan, physiotherapy contributes to a safe and effective return to daily activities, improving the patient's quality of life.

Rehabilitation phases

Rehabilitation for neck pain takes place in four stages:

• Phase 1 - Acute phase: reduce pain and tension and initiate light mobility;
• Phase 2 - Subacute phase: regain mobility and start strengthening;
• Phase 3 - Functional phase: improve stability, endurance and coordination;
• Phase 4 - Maintenance and prevention phase: avoid new crises.

Tips for a good recovery

• Maintain proper posture;
• Take regular breaks during work;
• Use the mobile phone at eye level to avoid excessive neck flexion;
• Exercise regularly, including strengthening your neck and shoulders;
• Choose a suitable cushion;
• Stick to the physiotherapist's exercise plan, even if you're past the pain stage;
• Try to reduce stress levels, which contribute to increased muscle tension.

If you suffer from neck pain, book your assessment at Integrativa, our team of physiotherapists are on hand to help you.

Book your assessment at Integrativa and take the first step towards your recovery.