There are many reasons for neck pain but one of the most common causes is the muscles surrounding the neck (The traps and the levator scapula) have been overused and strained. Some of the common symptoms that you may feel if you are experiencing muscular neck pain include; stiffness, soreness, pain in your shoulder and arm and possibly headaches. 

your symptoms may increase when trying to look over your shoulder typically when driving or crossing the road.

What causes muscular neck pain?

There is often no one cause of muscular neck pain as it can often be attributed to multiple different factors. One of the most common causes is spending prolonged periods of time in one posture such as sitting or standing at a desk without a change of position.  This makes the muscles work in a sustained position which will cause them to become strained and also increase pressure on the spine. 

Poor posture is another major contributor to neck pain as it will increase the strain on the ligament, muscles and tendons causing them to become overstretched and painful.  Our head weighs about 12 lbs which is a large weight for our neck muscles and joints to sustain at all times. Additionally, if we are slumped or leaning our head forward in a bad posture the muscles have to work even harder due to gravity putting extra pressure on our head. This will increase the strain on the neck muscles resulting in pain over time.

Often people believe their muscular neck pain is caused because of tightness in the muscles but the majority of the time it can be due to weakness in muscles such as the upper traps. These people report their symptoms are worse as the day goes on or when working for longer periods when the muscles become fatigued.

Other factors that can also be linked to muscular neck pain is when there are increased periods of stress or anxiety in our lives. When we are stressed we often hunch our shoulders and in doing this we are increasing the load on our neck muscles and soft tissue.

What is the treatment for muscular neck pain?

As there are numerous reasons that cause this pain the treatment can also be multifactorial, this does not make it complicated! You will need to correct any bad habits such as posture or prolonged sustained positions.

  • Good Posture: Work on maintaining a good spinal and head posture throughout the day, try to avoid slumping or letting your head lean forward.
  • Avoid sustained positions: If you have a job that requires you to spend long times in the same position, try to have regular breaks or stretch and move your neck and spine.
  • Good ergonomics. Ergonomics refers to your workplace setup. Ensure t that there is a good position of your desk height, the computer screen is at eye level, you are using an external keyboard and a good supportive chair.
  • Physiotherapy: There are a variety of techniques that physios can help to treat the pain including soft tissue therapy, dry needling, strengthening and stretching exercises.
  • Strengthening:  Increasing the strength of the muscles that support the head and neck will allow your body to be able to cope with greater loads. 

Will the pain go away?

People with muscular neck pain often make a very good recovery and can take between four to six weeks for all symptoms to fully resolve when they undergo some of the lifestyle changes listed above and begin a strengthening program of the neck and upper back muscles.

Is there anything to worry about?

Generally, no, most neck pain comes from a non-serious source.
However, If you suffer from any combination of the following symptoms along with your neck pain, please seek immediate medical attention at your local A&E;

  • Dizziness
  • Double vision
  • Difficulty speaking or swallowing
  • Fainting or collapse
  • Significant nausea
  • Numbness around your mouth or lips
  • A metallic taste or
  • Difficulty controlling your legs. 

If you think you have muscular neck pain and want to book an appointment with a specialist physiotherapist or have any questions do not hesitate to contact us at 01223 914140 or  e-mail us at enquiries@vineryroadstudios.co.uk