How Physical Therapy Helps Treat Neck Pain and Headaches

Neck Pain and Headaches

If you’ve ever woken up after sleeping on your neck in an awkward position, you know how discomforting and inhibiting this pain can be. When you experience neck pain, it can be difficult for you to move your head around and can even cause headaches. Many cases of neck pain, like strain caused from poor sleeping posture, go away after a day or two, but more severe cases of neck pain require treatment from professionals like physical therapists.

At SSOR, we provide neck pain treatments that benefit patients who have had an injury or are suffering from chronic and progressive pain. Additionally, physical therapy can help with headaches since many headaches are caused by pain that stems from the neck.

How do you know when you need professional help for neck pain?

As mentioned before, many cases of neck pain are minor and tend to resolve themselves after a few days. However, some types of neck pain will not go away on their own and require professional treatment for recovery.

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should visit a medical professional for assistance:

  • Neck pain that is severe
  • Muscle spasms in the neck
  • Pain that persists for longer than a few days
  • Pain that spreads through your shoulders and arms or legs
  • Numbness
  • Weakness

If you’re unsure about the severity of your neck pain or these symptoms, don’t hesitate to get help. Ignoring neck pain may lead to the development of a more severe condition or permanent disability. It’s better to get a medical opinion than to risk losing the use of your neck.

How physical therapy helps neck pain

Physical therapists are licensed healthcare professionals who are skilled in treating the musculoskeletal system, which makes up the muscles, bones, joints, ligaments and cartilage in your body. Your neck falls in this category.

Many physical therapy treatments for your neck will focus on strengthening and stretching the muscles to provide stronger support for your head and help relieve pressure from your spine.

Neck pain treatments at SSOR generally include:

  • Stretching and exercising
  • Icing and heating
  • Hands-on therapy
  • Dry needling and more

With physical therapy, you can reduce your neck pain and regain your neck’s mobility. Would you like to speak with a physical therapist at SSOR about treating your neck pain? Contact us today to set up an appointment and discover how we can help you.