Common symptoms
Neck pain manifests itself in a variety of ways:
- Stiffness or difficulty turning the head
- Headaches in neck pain, especially from the neck muscles
- Dizziness or feeling lightheaded, sometimes with blurred vision or tinnitus
- Tingling in face or arm, often due to pinched nerves
- A crackling sound with movement
- Shoulder and neck pain radiating to upper back or arms
Some people also experience neck pain with headaches or even tinnitus. This can occur after a rear-end collision or long-term stress, for example.
Causes of neck pain
The causes of neck pain are diverse, but often involve a combination of factors:
- Wrong sleeping position or bad pillow:
A wrong pillow or too soft/too hard mattress can lead to pillow neck pain. Consider a
bamboo pillow, orthopedic pillow or a
sleep pillow for side sleepers with neck pain as possible solutions. - Prolonged screen work:
Many people with office jobs or students (such as at RUG ma linguistics) develop neck pain from a hunched posture. - Tension and stress:
Tension often settles in the neck and shoulder muscles, leading to neck pain from stress, possibly resulting in headaches or dizziness. - Medical conditions:
Consider neck pain due to osteoarthritis, herniated disc or hypermobility. Neck pain after an accident such as whiplash is also common.
What can you do yourself?
1. Pay attention to your sleeping position and use the right pillow
Use a good pillow for neck pain – this supports your cervical vertebrae in the correct position. Consider:
- Memory foam or ergonomic pillow
- Emma pillow or tempur pillow for neck pain
- Pillow for side sleeper with neck pain
A bad pillow often exacerbates symptoms. If necessary, ask your physical therapist for advice on the best pillow for neck pain.
2. Do targeted exercises
With neck pain exercises, you can reduce stiffness and pain. Be aware that not every exercise is appropriate. Consider:
- Exercises for neck pain home doctor
- Stretching and strengthening exercises for the neck muscles
- Shoulder and posture exercises
Exercise is essential to promote recovery.
3. Reduce stress
Stress and neck pain often go hand in hand. Make sure you relax, get enough sleep, and take timely breaks. Mindfulness or breathing exercises can also help.
What does a physical therapist do for neck pain?
At The Physio Man, we look at the big picture: neck, back, shoulders and posture. During the intake we discuss your complaints and investigate possible causes. Depending on your situation, the treatment consists of:
- Manual therapy to remove movement restrictions
- Massage for neck pain to reduce muscle tension
- Exercise therapy for posture and strength
- Advice on pillows, sleeping position and work posture
- Counseling for chronic neck pain, tinnitus or tinnitus
We treat not only the pain, but also the cause, so that symptoms do not keep returning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which pillow is best for neck pain?
An ergonomic pillow that supports the natural curve of your neck is often best. For side sleepers, a higher, firmer pillow works better.
Can you get dizzy from neck pain?
Yes, tight neck muscles or pinched nerves can cause dizziness or lightheadedness.
What if I also have headaches or tinnitus?
Headaches and neck pain often occur together. Neck tension can also aggravate tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Physical therapy can do a lot in this regard.
Do you recognize yourself in these complaints?
Stop letting your neck pain define your day. Whether you suffer from incorrect sleep position, dizziness or headaches due to neck pain – we are here for you.
Make an appointment at The Physio Man today. Our specialists will guide you with personal attention, effective treatment methods and practical tips for daily comfort. Together, we work toward a neck that moves freely again – without pain, tension or restriction.
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