Neck Pain / Arm Pain (Cervicalgia / Brachialgia)

Understanding and Treating Neck and Arm Pain

Neck Pain

Neck pain is a painful condition that originates in the cervical region. It can manifest in various ways, including headaches, localized pain in the neck, and upper back discomfort. These pains may occur at different times of the day or during specific activities. Neck pain is generally caused by muscle tension, reduced mobility between the vertebrae, or nerve compression at their exit points from the spine. Posture plays a crucial role in the development of neck pain. Poor posture of the back and neck significantly increases muscle tension and decreases mobility.

 

Mechanical Pain

Cervical pain can cause mechanical pain, which occurs during movement and subsides at rest. Typically, this presents as discomfort or a “lock” when moving the head, such as checking blind spots while driving. Repeated movements can irritate a restricted area of the neck, worsening symptoms.

 

Neurological Pain

Cervical pain can also lead to neurological pain when nerve roots exiting the cervical intervertebral spaces are irritated or compressed. Along with pain and reduced neck mobility, this type of pain may include sensations of numbness, tingling, burning, or electric shocks radiating along a pathway that may extend into the arm. Common causes include herniated discs and osteoarthritis.

 

Arm and Neck Pain

Cervicobrachialgia encompasses pain in both the neck and arm, or just the arm, originating from the neck. As mentioned, pain can radiate from the neck to the arm, but it may also be felt solely in the arm in cases of nerve compression. The nerves of the arm originate in the neck and extend to the hand, explaining why neck pain can be accompanied by pain anywhere in the arm or shoulder, depending on the nerves affected.

 

Warning Signs

If you experience pain, loss of strength, or reduced skin sensation in both arms or legs, it is crucial to consult a physiotherapist or physician promptly. Immediate consultation is also essential in cases of dizziness, vision or hearing problems, loss of consciousness, or migraines accompanying these pains.

 

Physiotherapy Treatments

Physiotherapy aims to relieve pain and muscle tension, restore neck mobility, and improve posture. Our goal is to provide you with the tools to understand the causes of cervical pain, treat it, and prevent its recurrence.

 

Treatment Techniques

Common techniques used to alleviate neck pain include:

• Manual Therapy: The physiotherapist restores mobility and reduces joint pain through targeted movements of varying amplitudes. This approach prevents symptom worsening by working on soft tissues, muscles, tendons, and joints.
• Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Exercises to strengthen neck muscles, improve posture, increase mobility, and reduce muscle tension.
• McKenzie Approach: Focuses on patient education and active involvement in recovery, allowing patients to manage their injury while reducing the risk of recurrent neck pain.
• Motor Control Training: Re-educates the body to use stabilizing muscles to optimize posture and movement. The physiotherapist teaches how to use muscles correctly in daily life or sports to prevent future injuries.

If you are experiencing neck or arm pain, do not hesitate to consult our physiotherapy clinic. We are here to help you regain a pain-free life with full mobility.

Would you like to meet a specialist?

Book an appointment