General information only. Not a diagnosis, and not a substitute for an assessment.

What is it?

Neck pain is pain or stiffness in the neck. It can spread to your shoulders, upper back or head. Sometimes it is hard to turn your head.

Most neck pain is caused by tight muscles or stiff joints. It usually gets better on its own, and moving gently helps.

Common causes

Sitting in one position for a long time, such as at a desk or driving
Sleeping in an awkward position
Looking down at a phone or tablet for long periods
Stress, which can make muscles tense
Getting older, when joints in the neck can become stiffer

When to get urgent help

Call 999 or go to A&E if:

your neck pain started after a serious injury, such as a car accident or a bad fall
you have a stiff neck and a high temperature, and you feel very unwell, are being sick, have a headache, a rash, or bright lights hurt your eyes
you suddenly have weakness, numbness, or a drooping face, or you find it hard to speak

Do not move someone who may have hurt their neck in a serious accident. Call 999.

Do not drive yourself to A&E. Ask someone to drive you, or call 999 for an ambulance.

Contact NHS 111 or your GP if:

your neck pain is severe and started suddenly, or is getting worse quickly
your arms or legs feel heavy or weak
you have pins and needles in an arm, as well as pain in your neck or arm
you have pain between your shoulder blades
the pain has not improved after a few weeks

You can call 111 or get help from NHS 111 online.

How physio can help

Gentle exercises to loosen the neck and make it stronger
Hands-on treatment to ease stiffness
Advice on your work set-up, pillow and sleeping position
Ways to manage pain so you can keep doing everyday things

Everyone is different. We'll talk through what is likely to help you, and be honest if something else would suit you better.

What you can do at home

Keep your neck moving gently. Holding it still for long periods can make it stiffer.
Take regular breaks from screens and desks.
Try a heat pack on tight muscles.
Try one firm, low pillow at night.
A pharmacist can give you advice about pain relief.

Stop anything that makes your pain much worse, and get advice if you're not sure. Don't stop taking any medicine you've been prescribed without talking to your doctor or pharmacist.

Treatments that may help

Initial assessment — 50 minutes, £65
Follow-up physiotherapy — 40 minutes, £55
Sports massage — 45 minutes, £50
Acupuncture and dry needling — 40 minutes, £55