Neck pain has many causes.   Conditions associated with neck pain include herniated discs, sprain/strains, muscle spasms, osteoarthritis, joint dysfunction, whiplash and muscle stiffness. 

Often there is a combination of things that will lead to these conditions including poor posture, poor movement mechanics, repetitive stress, weak core muscles, prolonged sitting and poor movement in the thoracic spine (mid/upper back) and shoulder.  Often muscle imbalances involving muscles of the neck and shoulder blade will occur as a result of poor posture.  These imbalances will eventually create stress on the joints and discs in the neck and will lead to injury. 

Treatment

Treatment of neck pain requires a thorough functional evaluation in order to determine the actual cause of the problem.  Symptomatic treatment is performed in the beginning to relieve pain.  This is followed by correction of the aggravating factor.  Treatment methods include functional soft tissue therapy (A.R.T., Graston) to remove adhesions and restore normal function to the soft tissues of the neck, shoulder and any region that may an irritating factor.  Joint manipulation is important to restore normal motion and function in joints that are not moving correctly.  This joint dysfunction will often be found in other areas including the thoracic spine (mid/upper back). 

Functional rehabilitation is very important to strengthen the core and the muscles that stabilize the shoulder blade, and to correct movement patterns.  Once the injured tissue has healed and normal mechanics have been restored, it is important to maintain an active exercise and stretching routine to maintain the healthy changes that have been made and to prevent future injury.