Conditions we treat

Neck Pain

Neck pain can range from a nagging stiffness to sharp, debilitating pain that limits every movement. The right diagnosis makes all the difference — and that is where we start.

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Understanding Neck Pain

The cervical spine is one of the most mobile and vulnerable regions of the body. It supports the weight of the head, houses critical nerves, and is subject to enormous postural stress in the modern world. Neck pain is extremely common — affecting up to 70% of people at some point — and is closely linked to headaches, shoulder pain, and upper limb symptoms. At Sera Spine & Rehab, we assess the full picture before treating, ensuring your care targets the actual source of your pain.

Root causes

What causes neck pain?

Forward Head Posture

Every centimetre the head moves forward of neutral increases the effective load on the cervical spine. Prolonged screen use is the most common driver of this pattern.

Cervical Joint Dysfunction

Restricted or irritated facet joints in the neck cause localised pain, stiffness, and referred pain into the head and shoulder.

Muscle Tension & Trigger Points

The upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and suboccipital muscles are common sites of trigger points that refer pain into the neck and head.

Disc Degeneration or Herniation

Cervical disc problems can irritate nearby nerve roots, causing pain that radiates into the shoulder, arm, or hand.

Wry Neck (Acute Torticollis)

A sudden onset of severe neck pain and restricted rotation, often occurring overnight. Usually caused by a locked facet joint and responds well to chiropractic care.

Whiplash

A rapid acceleration-deceleration injury to the neck — most commonly from a motor vehicle accident — that damages muscles, ligaments, and joints.

Signs & symptoms

How does it present?

Pain and stiffness in the neck, particularly on one side
Restricted rotation — difficulty turning the head fully
Pain that radiates into the shoulder, upper back, or arm
Headaches originating at the base of the skull
Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand
Muscle tightness across the upper shoulders and neck
Pain that worsens with sustained postures or screen use

Our approach

How Sera Spine & Rehab treats neck pain

Chiropractic

Precise cervical and thoracic adjustments restore joint mobility, reduce nerve irritation, and relieve the muscle tension that accompanies neck dysfunction. The Gonstead technique allows highly specific treatment of the affected levels.

Myotherapy

Trigger point therapy, deep tissue massage, and dry needling target the specific muscles contributing to your neck pain — particularly the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and suboccipitals.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy addresses the postural and movement factors driving your neck pain, with manual therapy, taping, and a targeted exercise program to build long-term cervical stability.

Exercise Rehabilitation

Strengthening the deep neck flexors and scapular stabilisers reduces the load on the cervical spine and is essential for preventing recurrence in desk workers and screen users.

Your first visit

What to expect at your appointment

1
A detailed history covering the onset, location, and behaviour of your neck pain, plus any associated symptoms in the head, shoulder, or arm.
2
Postural assessment and cervical range of motion testing to identify restricted segments and contributing factors.
3
Neurological screening if you have arm or hand symptoms, to assess nerve involvement.
4
A clear explanation of your findings and a treatment plan tailored to your presentation.
5
Hands-on treatment in your first appointment, plus home exercises and postural advice.

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

Can a chiropractor help with wry neck?

Yes — acute wry neck (torticollis) is one of the conditions that responds most quickly to chiropractic care. A specific adjustment to the locked joint often produces immediate relief.

Is neck cracking dangerous?

Chiropractic adjustments to the neck are safe when performed by a trained, registered practitioner following a thorough assessment. The risks are very low and are discussed with you before any treatment.

My neck pain is causing headaches — can you help with both?

Absolutely. Cervicogenic headaches (headaches originating from the neck) are one of the most common presentations we see. Treating the neck dysfunction typically resolves both the neck pain and the headaches.

How long will it take to get better?

Acute neck pain often improves significantly within 2–4 sessions. Chronic or complex presentations take longer. We will give you a realistic timeframe at your first appointment.