Why consult?

Neck Pain

Information to help you understand your symptoms and who to consult for prevention or treatment.

Cervicalgia, or neck pain, is very detrimental to your quality of life, especially if it causes headaches, muscle spasms or even numbness. A variety of healthcare professionals can help relieve your neck pain and accompanying symptoms as well as prevent their recurrence.

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Why do you experience neck pain?

Neck pain can be caused by a sudden injury, such as a blow to the head, a fall, or an awkward move. It can also occur over time, if you often maintain the same posture or if you make repetitive movements with your neck or with your arms over your head.

In addition to pain, other symptoms of neck pain include stiffness, muscle tension, torticollis, headache, numbness, etc. The pain can spread to your upper back, shoulder, arm, hand and even into your fingers.

Primary causes of neck pain

Many diagnoses are associated with neck pain. Consulting a physiotherapist will help you fully understand the structures affected and how to promote their healing.

How is neck pain treated?

Expert tip: Keep active

Keeping active is the best way to treat neck pain. Physical activity helps maintain neck mobility, reduce pain, and minimize the stress of injury to the brain. Heed your symptoms so you know when to stop. It’s normal to feel a little pain, but when it increases, it’s a sign that you need to take a break.

Cardiorespiratory activities (walking, cycling, elliptical, etc.) and exercises targeting mobility, strengthening and flexibility of the neck enable faster recovery and prevent future painful episodes.

Which professional should you consult?

Various professionals often work together to maximize results. If in doubt, we recommend that you first consult a physiotherapist so that they can assess your needs and the treatments required for the specific condition of your neck. If necessary, they will recommend other professional(s) you should consult to optimize your rehabilitation.