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Neck & Shoulder Pain

Tension, stiffness and pain in the neck and shoulders, often linked to posture, desk work or stress.

What is Neck & Shoulder Pain?

Neck and shoulder pain is often caused by muscle tension, sleeping awkwardly, poor posture (such as looking down at a phone or laptop) or stress. It can make it hard to turn your head and may lead to headaches.

Most neck and shoulder pain is not serious and improves with time, gentle movement and treatment to release tight muscles.

Common signs

  • Stiff neck that is hard to turn
  • Tight, sore or knotted shoulder muscles
  • Pain that worsens after desk work or driving
  • Headaches starting at the base of the skull
  • Aching that spreads across the upper back

How can therapists help?

Massage — particularly back, neck and shoulder, deep tissue and trigger point work — can release tight muscles and improve comfort. Physiotherapists, osteopaths and chiropractors can improve joint movement and give you exercises and posture advice to stop the pain returning.

Back, neck & shoulder massage Physiotherapists Osteopaths Chiropractors Trigger point therapy
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This page is for general information only and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for medical advice. If your pain is severe, came on after a serious injury, is getting worse, or comes with symptoms such as numbness, weakness, fever or loss of bladder or bowel control, speak to your GP or call NHS 111 — or 999 in an emergency.

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