Neck

The neck is the part of the body that connects the head to the torso. It consists of several anatomical structures, including the spine, muscles, nerves, arteries, and veins. The cervical spine in the neck comprises seven vertebrae that provide support and mobility for the head. The neck muscles allow various head movements, such as turning, nodding, and tilting. The nerves passing through the neck are part of the peripheral nervous system and control sensory and motor functions of the head and neck. Arteries, such as the carotid artery, supply the brain with blood, while veins return blood to the heart. Due to its structure and functions, the neck is a critical area for maintaining movement, sensation, and vital functions.

How can physiotherapy help you?

Physiotherapists often deal with various neck conditions and issues, including:

• Cervical spondylosis: degenerative changes in the vertebrae and intervertebral discs of the cervical spine, which can cause pain and limited mobility.
• Muscle tension and strain: often a result of poor posture, prolonged sitting, stress, or improper physical activity, leading to neck pain and stiffness.
• Whiplash injury: an injury caused by the sudden and rapid movement of the head forward and backward, often due to a car accident. This can cause symptoms such as pain, limited movement, and headaches.
• Herniated disc: a bulging or ruptured intervertebral disc that can press on surrounding nerves, causing pain, tingling, or weakness in the arms.
• Headaches and migraines: certain types of headaches, including tension headaches and migraines, may be associated with neck issues such as muscle tension and cervical dysfunction.
• Nerve inflammation: including radiculopathy, where inflammation or pressure on nerves in the neck causes pain that can radiate into the arms and fingers.