Neck Pain Physiotherapy in Takapuna

Neck Pain Physiotherapy in Takapuna

Neck pain is another common reason people visit a physiotherapist. It can develop after

long hours at a desk, looking down at your phone, sleeping in an awkward position or

following a minor strain. Sometimes it simply comes on without any obvious reason.

It is one of the problems we see most often in T akapuna, where a large proportion of our

patients spend their working day at a desk or on a laptop.

What causes neck pain?

There are many possible causes of neck pain, including:

• Muscle or joint irritation

• Prolonged desk work

• Poor posture

• Whiplash or minor sprains

• Age-related changes

One question we often get asked is, "Do I need an X-ray or MRI?"

In many cases, the answer is no. Wear-and-tear changes become more common as we get

older and are often seen on scans, even in people who don't have any neck pain. That's

why your symptoms and physical examination are usually more important than imaging

alone.

How can physiotherapy help?

Treatment depends on what's causing your symptoms, but it may include:

• Individualised exercise

• Manual therapy where appropriate

• Advice on posture and workstation setup

• A gradual return to normal activities

For most neck conditions, staying active and gradually improving movement is usually

more helpful than avoiding activity altogether.

Because we offer both physiotherapy and acupuncture in the same Takapuna Seven clinic, we can also use acupuncture where it helps — particularly for neck pain that is driving headaches.

Is it covered by ACC?

Neck pain that follows an accident or incident — a whiplash, a fall, a strain from lifting — is

generally covered by ACC. You do not need a GP referral. Our clinic is a registered ACC

treatment provider and can lodge the claim for you at your first appointment, usually

processed within 24–48 hours. A surcharge applies to ACC physiotherapy.

Neck pain that comes on gradually from desk work is usually not covered, but can be

treated as a private appointment.

When should you seek advice?

If your neck pain has lasted more than a couple of weeks, keeps coming back, or is

affecting your sleep, work or everyday activities, it's worth having it assessed. Early

treatment can often help prevent ongoing stiffness and discomfort.

Book online, or call us 09 281 3779— Level 3, 507 Lake Road, Takapuna.

References Blanpied PR, et al. Neck Pain Clinical Practice Guidelines. Journal of

Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy (JOSPT). Clinical Practice Guideline: Neck Pain.